electric shock
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of electric shock
First recorded in 1940–45
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As a result of our investigation, the BBC understands the government will now investigate the historical use of electric shock therapy in the NHS.
From BBC ● Dec. 5, 2025
It was "an electric shock, a wake-up call about what changing our diets can mean for intensive animal farming and for deforestation", said the 63-year-old retiree, who lives in Ermenonville, an hour from Paris.
From Barron's ● Oct. 30, 2025
The Meter Operation Code of Practice Agreement says the plastic casing can "in some circumstances become conductive leading to a risk of electric shock and/or excessive heat".
From BBC ● Oct. 2, 2025
On doorsteps, put down mats that cause a mild electric shock when a bear steps on them; they’re called “unwelcome mats.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 9, 2025
Mark slipped out the window several inches—a thunderbolt of pure terror flashed through him like an electric shock before his progress stopped again.
From "The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin)" by James Dashner
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.