1. Definition of “Awed”
“Awed” is an adjective that describes a feeling of wonder, respect, and sometimes a bit of fear or reverence in the face of something majestic, powerful, or very impressive. For example, “The audience was awed by the acrobat's death - defying stunts.”
2. Synonyms
- Amazed
- “Amazed” means filled with great surprise or wonder. For example, “She was amazed by the beauty of the Northern Lights.” It is similar to “awed” in that it conveys a strong sense of being impressed. However, “amazed” often emphasizes the element of surprise more than the respect or reverence that “awed” implies. When you're amazed, you're mainly astonished by what you see or experience, while “awed” has a deeper sense of being humbled by the grandeur or significance of something.
- Impressed
- “Impressed” means to have a favorable opinion or a feeling of admiration for someone or something. For example, “The interviewer was impressed by the candidate's knowledge and skills.” It is related to “awed” as it shows a positive reaction to something. But “impressed” can be a more general term for admiration. “Awed” implies a more profound and almost overwhelming sense of admiration that might make a person feel small or insignificant in comparison to the object of their awe.
- Overawed
- “Overawed” is very close to “awed” and means to be so impressed or filled with awe that it almost subdues or overwhelms you. For example, “The young athlete was overawed by the size and the atmosphere of the Olympic stadium.” The difference between “awed” and “overawed” is that “overawed” emphasizes a stronger or more intense feeling of being overcome by awe, as if you're almost intimidated by the grandiosity or importance of the situation.
- Stupefied
- “Stupefied” means to be so amazed or shocked that you're almost unable to think or act. For example, “He was stupefied by the magician's incredible trick.” It is related to “awed” in the sense of being strongly affected by something. However, “stupefied” often has a connotation of being mentally numbed or dazed, while “awed” is more about a deep sense of respect and wonder. Stupefied might imply a more temporary state of being dumbfounded, whereas “awed” can lead to a more lasting feeling of reverence.