deer-in-headlights

deer-in-headlights

(Used before a noun.) Of or describing a paralyzed manner or appearance, as due to surprise, fear, shock, or bewilderment. Likened to the tendency of deer to freeze in place in front of an oncoming vehicle. He had this dopey deer-in-headlights look on his face when I asked him where the money had gone.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • like a deer in (the) headlights
  • a deer in (the) headlights
  • a deer in the headlights
  • deer
  • headlight
  • like a rabbit (caught) in (the) headlights
  • like a rabbit caught in the headlights
  • get (one's) rocks off on (something)
  • you could have knocked me down with a feather
  • you could have knocked me, etc. down with a feather
References in periodicals archive
In consideration of which, settling into a perpetual "deer-in-headlights" posture assures that one's accountabilities will lie fallow.
The five P's of underwriting: those who would underwrite life applicants need to keep learning, work with partners, and maintain their integrity