Gob-smacking

Gob-smacking
 

What is the meaning and derivation [origin] of the expression "gob-smacking"?

It is probably a British expression, someone near London said,
I thought the event was amazing and gob-smacking. It was breathtaking! It was amazingly special.

Given the context I take that it must be some synonym of "amazing" or "really amazing" but any additional data on it will be greatly appreciated. :)

I guess you know gob is a BrE word for mouth (originally a lump of food), and is not used in polite society. Shut your gob = ¡cállate la boca! but probably even less polite.

I'm just guesing that gob-smacking is a reference to when you see something which really amazes you, there is a natural reaction to cover your mouth with your hand (why? to stop yourself swearing?). If something is really surprising, you might do it suddenly and "smack yourself in the gob".

I don't normally use the word :rolleyes:

Only a guess. :thinking:

Well, that makes sense... I guess it can be to avoid "swearing" or just avoid to utter some kind of exultant and elated cry... that may be 'excessive'.

Thank you, Perikles.

Possibly because your jaw dropped* and it's not polite to have a wide open mouth in public.

* "Jaw-dropping" can often be used as a synonym for "gob-smacking".

Aaaah, good point... (I had to cover my gob/mouth after/before the "Aaaah", but I have not smiley for that) ;)