'stun' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'estoner,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'toner' meant 'to thunder.'

'estoner' transformed into the Middle English word 'stounen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'stun.'

Initially, it meant 'to make someone senseless or unconscious,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to shock or surprise someone.'