Shock

Shock Shock, n. [Cf. D. schok a bounce, jolt, or leap, OHG. scoc a swing, MHG. schoc, Icel. skykkjun tremuously, F. choc a shock, collision, a dashing or striking against, Sp. choque, It. ciocco a log. [root]161. Cf. {Shock} to shake.] 1. A quivering or shaking which is the effect of a blow, collision, or violent impulse; a blow, impact, or collision; a concussion; a sudden violent impulse or onset. [1913 Webster]

These strong, unshaken mounds resist the shocks Of tides and seas tempestuous. --Blackmore. [1913 Webster]

He stood the shock of a whole host of foes. --Addison. [1913 Webster]

2. A sudden agitation of the mind or feelings; a sensation of pleasure or pain caused by something unexpected or overpowering; also, a sudden agitating or overpowering event. ``A shock of pleasure.'' --Talfourd. [1913 Webster]

3. (Med.) A sudden depression of the vital forces of the entire body, or of a port of it, marking some profound impression produced upon the nervous system, as by severe injury, overpowering emotion, or the like. [1913 Webster]

4. (Elec.) The sudden convulsion or contraction of the muscles, with the feeling of a concussion, caused by the discharge, through the animal system, of electricity from a charged body. [1913 Webster]

Syn: {Concussion}, {Shock}.

Usage: Both words signify a sudden violent shaking caused by impact or colision; but concussion is restricted in use to matter, while shock is used also of mental states. [1913 Webster]