startle

[stahr-tl] / ˈstɑr tl /

VERB

frighten, surprise

Synonyms

STRONGEST

agitate alarm amaze astonish astound awe scare shake up shock stagger stun terrify

STRONG

affright bolt consternate floor fright jump rock spook spring start terrorize

WEAK

give a turn make jump scare to death spring something on take aback

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bore calm expect reassure soothe

WEAK

comfort compose

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.

Speaking on the red carpet at the London premiere, he looked a bit startled and paused for a period, before answering: "Yes. Yes."

From BBC

You’d assume from the pose that she’s sleeping, except her eyes are wide open, and in this frightened or startled expression.

From Los Angeles Times

I’m startled by her question and even more startled by her nonchalant attitude.

From Literature

He spun around to meet his mother's startled eyes.

From Literature

The pale green color was fading into a startling white.

From Literature