Aback

Definition of aback:

part of speech: adverb

Backwards; by surprise.

part of speech: adverb

Said of sails pressed backward against the mast by the wind- hence, TAKEN ABACK, taken by surprise.

Usage examples for aback:

• One look; the boy had just been taken aback at the sight of a stranger, and such an unusually pretty one. "The Disturbing Charm", Berta Ruck.

• Flashman was taken aback and retreated two steps. "Tom Brown's School Days", Thomas Hughes.

• I forget to smile; I don't even take off my hat at first, I am so taken aback to see her come this way. "Hunger", Knut Hamsun.