épater

Senses

1. 1.

   to astonish; to astound

   to surprise someone greatly with something unexpected

2. 2.

   to impress

   to make a strong positive impression on someone

3. 3.

   to spread flat; to flatten

   to press or spread something out in a flat position (archaic/technical)

Examples

• "Son succès a épater tous ses professeurs."

  His success astonished all his teachers.

• "Elle veut épater la galerie avec sa nouvelle robe."

  She wants to impress the crowd with her new dress.

• "Ça m'épate que tu aies fini déjà !"

  I'm amazed that you've already finished!

Usage

Common verb in French, especially in the phrase "épater la galerie" (to show off; to impress the crowd). Often colloquial or informal. The past participle épaté means "amazed/astonished" or "spread flat" depending on context.