Filled with a feeling of wonder, respect, and sometimes fear when experiencing something great or impressive.
From 'awe' (Old English 'ege,' meaning fear or dread) + 'struck' (past participle of strike). The compound suggests being 'struck by awe,' as if a physical blow of wonder has hit someone, creating the image of being overwhelmed.
The word 'awestruck' literally captures the moment when humans experience sublimity—psychologists note this emotion activates ancient parts of our brain related to survival and group bonding, suggesting awe evolved to help us recognize true danger or majesty.
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