Wiktionary
taken aback
(context figuratively English) surprised, shocked. v
(past participle of take aback English)
Usage examples of "taken aback".
He looked taken aback, until they told him who I was, and that I had a fair acquaintance with North American Indians myself, to say nothing of other various aborigines.
I glanced at Jamic, who looked momentarily taken aback, but who politely accepted his cup and drank without hesitation.
The wolf seemed mildly taken aback by the gesture, but after a moment, put out a long pink tongue and daintily licked Ian's ear.
She was taken aback this time, her eyes widening in shock and anger.