astonish

/əˈstɒnɪʃ/verb

To amaze someone; to fill a person with sudden wonder.

Example sentence

“The news of her promotion astonished everyone in the office.”

A step beyond "surprise": surprise is anything unexpected, astonishment leaves you briefly unable to respond.

Related words

astuteQuick to understand situations correctly and use them to advantage; shrewd.asthmaA chronic breathing disorder in which the airways can suddenly tighten, often triggered by allergens, cold air, exercise, or stress.athleteSomeone who trains for and competes in sports, especially with notable skill.assuageTo ease or soften something unpleasant, such as pain, hunger, or a strong emotion.atlasA book of maps, often including charts, pictures, or explanatory text.assignmentThe act of handing out a job or duties, or the task that is given.