Dumbstruck
"Dumbstruck" describes a state of being so astonished or shocked that one is temporarily rendered speechless. It can result from both positive and negative experiences, such as unexpected acts of kindness or sudden tragedies. The term implies an intense emotional reaction, often accompanied by physical manifestations like wide eyes or a frozen stance. In literature, characters being dumbstruck adds dramatic tension and underscores the significance of pivotal moments.