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