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

Even as average new car prices approached $50,000 this year, dealers fretted more over depleted inventories than losing customers to sticker shock.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sticker shock is hitting car buyers as the U.S. broadly faces what many consider to be a growing affordability crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal

Perpetual sticker shock is making many within the group feel worse about both their own finances and the future of the country.

From The Wall Street Journal

New Jersey residents faced sticker shock from their utility bills rising 20% year over year this June.

From MarketWatch

But without the subsidies at the heart of the shutdown battle, many are in for sticker shock.

From MarketWatch