# shocker

/ˈʃɑkɝ/ (US) · /ʃˈɒkɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shocker
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

something that is very surprising or upsetting. You use this word when a piece of news or an event is much more shocking than you expected.

For teachers: An event, piece of news, or action that causes a sudden and intense feeling of surprise or dismay. Often used in journalism to describe unexpected sports results or scandals.

## Examples

- The final score was a real shocker.
- It was a total shocker when the favorite to win the race finished in last place.
- The morning headlines delivered a absolute shocker, revealing that the CEO had resigned effective immediately following the audit results.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the adjective 'real' or 'total' for emphasis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.