staunen

Etymology
Attested since the 17th century, then introduced in the general written language by (1708-1777), from, of uncertain origin. Probably related to. Alternatively—though less likely both on semantic and phonetic grounds—from, whence ,. Probably not related to.

The original sense is “to become stiff, stand still”, used especially of the eyes and thus “to muse, contemplate, romanticise”, which is the sense in which Haller used it. Outside of Switzerland, however, the word was reinterpreted by backformation from the derivative, which had already been in general use since the 16th century.

Verb

 * 1) to be amazed or astonished; to wonder or marvel

Usage notes

 * and are stronger than, but weaker than . Moreover, they usually imply a degree of admiration, though this is not necessarily the case.