startled

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.

A man was startled to find a black bear in the front seat of a pickup truck in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2026

The initial announcement of SpaceX’s bond sale had startled some investors, some of whom sold their shares.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 23, 2026

In a move that startled many customers, sustainable fashion retailer Everlane has been acquired by Shein.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

Even so, I was startled to see the film end with the onscreen words, “His story continues.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Sydney looked up and was startled to see a man looking directly at her from behind the check-in counter.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti