What does jolted mean?
Jolted is the past tense and past participle of the verb jolt. It describes a sudden, sharp movement, as when a vehicle strikes a bump or a loud noise makes someone physically recoil. The word is also widely used figuratively for a powerful emotional or intellectual shock, such as being unsettled by bad news or surprised by new information. Its strong imagery suggests abruptness and disruption: a jolt interrupts an expected rhythm and demands an immediate reaction. In writing, “jolted” often appears in news reports and accounts of accidents or emotional encounters, while figurative expressions such as “jolted awake” emphasize an abrupt return to awareness. Because the term can describe both physical movement and mental or emotional disturbance, it is useful wherever an event is portrayed as unexpectedly forceful or destabilizing.
verbTo move suddenly and sharply, or to cause someone or something to move with a sudden jolt. It can also mean to shock or unsettle someone suddenly.
- Moved suddenly and sharply, or caused to move suddenly and sharply.
- Shocked or unsettled suddenly, especially by unexpected news or an alarming experience.
"The unexpected announcement jolted the entire room."
"A loud crash jolted the workers awake."
"The figures jolted the economist, prompting an immediate reassessment."
A jolt can shake both the body and the mind: the same word describes a sudden movement and a sudden shock.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jolted come from?
The verb jolt comes from an English word meaning to shake or move suddenly, with roots in older forms associated with sudden movement and physical impact. The word has been used in English since the early 17th century. Its history also connects with the idea of a sudden, jolting movement rather than a gradual change.
Related word forms
How jolted is actually used
The word is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. Figurative uses often imply that someone is suddenly shocked, disoriented, or forced to reconsider a situation.
Easily confused with jolted
A jolt is a sudden sharp movement, whereas jostling usually involves repeated pushing or elbowing in a crowd.