n. [ Cf. OF. estonnement, F. étonnement. ] 1. The condition of one who is stunned. Hence: Numbness; loss of sensation; stupor; loss of sense. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] A coldness and astonishment in his loins, as folk say. Holland. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Dismay; consternation. [ Archaic ] Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. The overpowering emotion excited when something unaccountable, wonderful, or dreadful is presented to the mind; an intense degree of surprise; amazement. [ 1913 Webster ] Lest the place And my quaint habits breed astonishment. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. The object causing such an emotion. [ 1913 Webster ] Thou shalt become an astonishment. Deut. xxviii. 37. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Amazement; wonder; surprise. [ 1913 Webster ] |