Definition

1. Noun:
   • A reflex response to the passage of electric current through the body: A sudden, often painful, physical reaction caused when electricity flows through a person's or animal's body. It is a safety mechanism and a potential hazard.

Usage

The term "electrical shock" is used to describe the event or sensation of receiving a shock from electricity. It is typically used in contexts discussing safety, accidents, medicine, or occupational hazards. - It is often used interchangeably with "electric shock." - It can describe both minor, startling sensations and severe, dangerous incidents.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The faulty wiring caused him to receive a severe electrical shock.
  • Safety regulations are designed to prevent electrical shock in the workplace.
  • She felt a slight electrical shock when she touched the metal doorknob.

Advanced Usage

• "to receive an electrical shock": to experience the passage of electric current through one's body.
  • He received an electrical shock while repairing the appliance.
• "risk of electrical shock": the potential danger of being shocked by electricity.
  • The warning label clearly states the risk of electrical shock.

Variants and Related Words

• Electric shock (n): A common variant with identical meaning.
  • The patient was treated for electric shock.
• Shock (n): In medical or general contexts, this can refer to a different condition (e.g., circulatory shock) or a sudden upsetting experience. The meaning is clear from context.
  • The news came as a terrible shock. (Here, it is not an electrical shock.)

Synonyms

• Electric shock: The direct synonym.
• Electrocution: This specifically refers to death or severe injury caused by electric shock.

Related Phrases

• Shock hazard: A danger or risk of receiving an electrical shock.
  • Exposed wires present a serious shock hazard.
• Ground fault: An electrical fault that can lead to a shock.
  • A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) helps prevent electrical shock.

Noun

1. a reflex response to the passage of electric current through the body
   • subjects received a small electric shock when they made the wrong response
   • electricians get accustomed to occasional shocks