SHOCK AND AWE Definition & Meaning

shock and awe

[ shok uhn aw ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

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.
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.
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

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?
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.

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of shock and awe¹

First recorded in 1865–70; 1995–2000 shock and awe fordef 1

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

“Shock and awe is the goal here — to shake people up and disrupt,” said Pedro A. Noguera, dean of USC’s Rossier School of Education.

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With few exceptions, such as the “Hands off” protests several weeks ago, the American people have also been cowed by Donald Trump and his forces’ shock and awe campaign.

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At a time when it feels as though "those in power are betting on us being too afraid and too overwhelmed by the shock and awe," Dominguez said it's important for Americans to show up and make it known they won't go down without a fight — despite how scared they may be or how deeply they may be feeling the impact of the government's actions.

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The following should be alarm sirens for anyone desperate for some hope that Trump's “shock and awe” campaign and political power are getting weaker.

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The shock and awe of these first three months has left the country dazed and confused and it is starting to rebel.

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shock absorber shock cuffs

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