In a manner that causes surprise, outrage, or dismay; to an extreme or unexpected degree.
From French 'choquer' meaning 'to strike against,' originally describing military encounters. The sense of emotional impact developed in the 16th century, with the electrical meaning appearing much later in the 18th century.
Before electricity was understood, 'shock' described the jarring impact of collision - physical, emotional, or moral. The word's evolution mirrors humanity's growing understanding of invisible forces that can strike without warning.
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