As a Noun: 1. The state of being fully aware of something, or to be paying full attention to what is happening. English = alertness. 2. A feeling of great surprise about something. English = astonishment. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To be fully aware of something, or to be paying full attention to what is happening. English = (be) alert, (be) wide-awake. 2. To be very surprised about something. English = (be) astonished. 3. To admire something or to understand the importance of it. English = (be) impressed.