shock and awe

[shok uhn aw]

noun

1. Military.,  a strategy of overwhelming the enemy quickly with an impressive show of military might (often used attributively).

   The war planners freely admit to using shock and awe tactics, targeting civilian and military targets alike with massive bombardment.

2. an attempt to intimidate and defeat an opponent or advance one’s interests by an impressive show, as of power and authority, bravado, risk taking, etc. (often used attributively).

   It's hard to look at this latest escapade of theirs as anything but shock and awe to garner fame and fortune.

   She’s not a shock and awe type of leader.

3. a state of being overwhelmed, dismayed, or greatly surprised and impressed.

   We are already watching in shock and awe the disastrous consequences of not taking appropriate action on climate change.

   Even those with no interest in architecture will experience shock and awe at the sight of the new concert hall’s curvaceous stainless steel exterior.

verb (used with or without object)

shocked and awed, shocking and aweing 

1. to overwhelm or defeat with an impressive show of power and authority or of military might.

   Could we shock and awe another planet into surrender if it didn't have the technology to meet our offensive?

2. to very greatly surprise or impress; stun; dazzle.

   At $800 each, the new magnesium alloy reel shocked and awed anglers and left everyone staggered by its lightness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of shock and awe¹

First recorded in 1865–70; 1995–2000 shock and awe for def. 1

Example Sentences

Urban Realm's current editor John Glenday says the award was intended as a "shock and awe" approach which would help galvanise communities that need help.

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Nearly nine months into his second term, which has seen him follow through on his autocratic “shock and awe” campaign to remake America in his image, his approval ratings have remained steady, hovering around 41 to 45 percent.

Read more on Salon

Nearly nine months into his second term, which has seen him follow through on his autocratic “shock and awe” campaign to remake America in his image, his approval ratings have remained steady, hovering around 41 to 45 percent.

Read more on Salon

When the U.S. launched its “shock and awe” air assault on Baghdad to begin the Iraq War in March 2003, “it was a breathtaking display of firepower,” anchor Tom Brokaw told NBC viewers with unintended irony.

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Helton planned to bring his Georgia Southern players to the Coliseum on Friday to get the shock and awe out of the way early.

Read more on Los Angeles Times