Aback
Definition of aback:
part of speech: adverb
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.