shell shock
Originally coined during World War I, "shell shock" describes the severe psychological impact of warfare on soldiers, now largely understood as a form of PTSD.
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Definition
C1Military
(historical, medical)A severe psychological condition experienced by soldiers due to the intense stress and trauma of combat.
Example
- Many soldiers returning from the front lines were diagnosed with shell shock.
- The term shell shock was first used to describe the psychological impact of trench warfare during World War I.
B2General
(figurative)A state of extreme shock or disorientation caused by a traumatic event.
Example
- She was in shell shock after hearing the unexpected news.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "shell shock":
shock therapyshock waveshock and aweelectric shocknervous breakdown