sticker shock

American  

noun

1. unpleasant surprise on learning of an unexpectedly high price for an item.

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Etymology

Origin of sticker shock

sticker ( price ) + shock

Example Sentences

The sticker shock that comes after giving birth is often due to a lack of insurance literacy, Gundling said.

From MarketWatch

Whether they priced cars or a pound of beef at the supermarket, the sticker shock remained.

From MarketWatch

There are plenty of ways to preserve family time without anyone having to shoulder the labor of hosting an entire meal — or the sticker shock of an enormous bill.

From MarketWatch

"The sticker shock is kind of flooring," said Drury, who notes that there are currently no new models under $20,000.

From Barron's

But a failure to address the lapsing credits is expected to result in sticker shock across the state and the country.

From Los Angeles Times