bolt upright

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

However, there is one person who will bolt upright with alarm whenever I sneeze and exclaim, “Well, excuse you!” or, “Why didn’t you give us some warning?!” making everyone stare at me further.

From Washington Post • Jun. 10, 2022

I sat bolt upright, moving my lips with nothing coming out.

From New York Times • Jun. 5, 2022

When Valieva performs the move, she stays bolt upright - it is a bit like watching a corkscrew float through the air.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2022

I have watched Holmes sit bolt upright at the defense table as her lawyers slowly wilt.

From The Verge • Dec. 9, 2021

And Grandpa sat bolt upright in the bed.

From "Cold Sassy Tree" by Olive Ann Burns