appall

especially British, ap·pal

[uh-pawl]

verb (used with object)

1. to fill or overcome with horror, consternation, or fear; dismay.

   He was appalled by the damage from the fire. I am appalled at your mistakes.

   Synonyms: daunt, horrify

Word History and Origins

Origin of appall¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English, from Middle French ap(p)allir “to grow or make pale,” equivalent to a- a- ⁵ + pal(l)ir in same sense; pale ¹

Synonym Study

See frighten.

Example Sentences

"I am appalled by the RSF's endless and wanton disregard for civilian life," he said.

Read more on BBC

The United Nations rights chief said Friday that he was "appalled" by the RSF's recent killing of civilians in the city, including what appeared to be ethnically motivated summary executions.

Read more on Barron's

Cam is appalled at the lack of privacy in the bathrooms.

Read more on Salon

The general reaction to “MASS” was that of appall, no matter whether you worshipped Bernstein or couldn’t bear him, whatever your political or cultural orientation.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's spokesperson said the incident was "appalling" and that an attack on Muslims was an attack on all Britons.

Read more on BBC