Stunning

Definition

Stunning typically refers to something extremely beautiful or impressive; striking. It can also pertain to the act of causing someone to feel shock or surprise.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (Present participle of to stun)

Pronunciation

American English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈstʌnɪŋ/
• Respelling: STUN-ing (with "STUN" as in "stun" and "ing" as in "ring")

British English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈstʌnɪŋ/
• Respelling: STUN-ing (similar to American English, with "STUN" as in "stun" and "ing" like in "ring")

In both dialects, "stunning" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "STUN." The pronunciation of "stunning" is consistent between American and British English, highlighting the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

Etymology

The term "stunning" is derived from the verb "stun," which has origins in the Old French word "estoner," meaning to stun or astonish, possibly stemming from the Latin "tonare," meaning to thunder. The suffix “-ing” denotes the act of or results in a particular quality.

Derivatives

• Stunner
• Stunned
• Stunningly
• Unstunning
• Restun

Synonyms

• Gorgeous
• Striking
• Astonishing

Antonyms

• Unimpressive
• Dull
• Unremarkable

Usage

"Stunning" is utilized in both a literal and figurative sense to describe the act of causing shock or surprise, or to describe an extremely beautiful or impressive thing or person.

Related Terms

• Stun
• Stunner
• Stunningly

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Aesthetically Pleasing: Extremely beautiful or attractive.
• Example: The model wore a stunning gown on the runway.

• Impressive or Remarkable: Exceptionally impressive or effective.
• Example: The athlete gave a stunning performance at the competition.

Verb

• Present Participle of to Stun: Causing someone to feel shock or surprise.
• Example: The news was stunning, leaving everyone in disbelief.