also: どくけをぬかれる · どっけをぬかれる
expression, ichidan verb
be taken aback; be dumbfounded
Idiomatic expression meaning to be so shocked or surprised that one's usual energy or assertiveness is drained away. Often used when someone's strong reaction or argument is suddenly deflated by an unexpected event or remark.
彼のあまりに率直な謝罪に、毒気を抜かれてしまった。
I was completely taken aback by his surprisingly frank apology.
相手の予想外の反応に毒気を抜かれた。
I was dumbfounded by the other person's unexpected reaction.