jolt

Definition

A jolt is a sudden strong movement or shock, or something that surprises or startles you. It can be physical, like a bump, or emotional, like sudden news.

Usage & Nuances

'Jolt' can be used as both a noun ('a jolt of electricity') and verb ('the bus jolted'). Often used for both physical movements and sudden emotions or news. Common collocations: 'give a jolt', 'feel a jolt', 'a jolt of energy'. More formal in writing; in informal speech, 'shock' is often used for emotions.

Example Sentences