Awe
/ɔː/
Definitions
A feeling of reverential respect mixed with wonder or fear.
/ɔː/
A feeling of reverential respect mixed with wonder.
The breathtaking scenery filled me with awe.
💡 Simply: Feeling amazed and respectful.
More Examples
She spoke with an awe-inspiring passion.
How It's Used
"The vastness of the Grand Canyon filled them with awe."
"I stood in awe of her accomplishments."
Idioms & expressions
stand in awe of
To be filled with great respect and admiration for someone or something.
"I stand in awe of her artistic talent."
Old English *aga, *ege "fear, dread, reverence," from Proto-Germanic *agwô (source also of Old High German aga "fear," Old Norse agi "fear, terror," Gothic agis "fear," German Furcht), from PIE *h₂ǵʰōw- "to fear, be afraid, revere." The sense evolved from fear to reverence and wonder.
Historically, awe often carried a stronger connotation of fear and dread, gradually shifting to its modern meaning of wonder and respect.
Memory tip
Think of being 'in awe' of something amazing and slightly frightening.
Word Origin
"fear, dread, reverence"