sticker shock
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of sticker shock
sticker ( price ) + shock
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.
You also still might be experiencing sticker shock on the Lakers’ behalf.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026
Then came the sticker shock regarding its anticipated lease prices.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 16, 2026
Despite the sticker shock, therapists and financial experts say such splurges could be worth it, as long as it’s something you can afford and it holds significant value for you.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 12, 2026
"Consumers aren't only facing sticker shock at the pump, but also with their utility bills, as electricity prices rose sharply last month," he said.
From Barron's ● May 12, 2026
Though prices are higher on the West Coast, much of the nation is feeling sticker shock when it is time to fill up.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 7, 2026
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.
