08:56 Nov 7, 2011 

It's a matter of semantics (some would say hair splitting) whether you translate "coup" as impact or shock. Having, in a former life, performed one or two shock tests and analyses on underwater structures, I'm aware of a technical distinction between a shock and a jolt, bump or impact - at least in EN, theough FR uses "choc" for mild knocks as well as explosions. IMO "shock absorber" is a misnomer, and rarely used among shock and vibration specialists, who prefer "damper". See Harris' Shock & Vibration Handbook (formerly Harris & Crede) for a comprehensive treatment of the subject.