startle

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.

McVay initially yelled and tried to make herself bigger to startle away the predator.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2026

Few people who have been on the national stage this long retain an ability to startle.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 24, 2025

But when she sees another dog, everything changes: she snarls, barks loud enough to startle a city block, and lunges with so much force it takes all my strength to hold her back.

From Salon • Aug. 18, 2025

The next thing Ms Lees knew, the kangaroo had launched towards her car, which she had slowed to a crawl so as not to startle the animal, and started to attack it.

From BBC • May 23, 2025

She walked softly so she wouldn’t startle him.

From "Caterpillar Summer" by Gillian McDunn