adjective

amazed

Very surprised.

The children look amazed as butterflies emerge from the enclosure.

Etymology

Earlier amaze meant to bewilder or confuse. A person who was amazed was mentally overwhelmed; the adjective later became the ordinary description of someone strongly surprised.

More examples

  • I was amazed by how quickly the plants grew.
  • She remains amazed at his generosity.
  • The audience falls silent, amazed by the unexpected ending.

Similar words

astonished
Similarly expresses very strong surprise.
impressed
Suggests admiration but does not necessarily include surprise.