Jaw-dropping Meaning, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：astonishing (Jaw-dropping)

Jaw-dropping 🔊

/ˈdʒɔː ˌdrɒpɪŋ/

adj.

Something so surprising or impressive that it makes your jaw drop in amazement.

Jaw-dropping scene: crowd amazed by dazzling light show

astonishing 🔊

➕

/əˈstɒnɪʃɪŋ/

adj.

Extremely surprising or impressive, to the point that one's mouth opens in amazement.

📁 Category：Entertainment & Sports 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'jaw' (mouth part) + 'dropping' (falling); describes something that makes one's jaw drop in surprise.

💡 Mnemonic

Picture your jaw hitting the floor like a heavy rock when you see something incredibly amazing.

📖 Example

The jaw-dropping acrobatics at the circus had children and adults alike cheering loudly. 🔊 The jaw-dropping acrobatics at the circus had children and adults alike cheering loudly.

🔗 Collocations

jaw-dropping moment – A moment that is so surprising it makes one's jaw drop.

jaw-dropping view – A view so beautiful or impressive that it leaves one speechless.

jaw-dropping effect – An effect that causes extreme surprise or admiration.

🔄 Synonyms

astounding (adj.) – So surprising or impressive that it is hard to believe.

staggering (adj.) – Causing great astonishment or shock.

breathtaking (adj.) – Causing an intense emotional reaction, often due to beauty or grandeur.

🚫 Antonyms

unremarkable (adj.) – Not particularly interesting or surprising.

ordinary (adj.) – With no special features; normal.

mundane (adj.) – Lacking interest or excitement; dull.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating in mid-20th century American slang, it metaphorically exaggerates the physical reaction of a dropped jaw to extreme surprise. Often used in entertainment reviews to describe stunning performances.