Definition & Meaning of "startle"in English

to startle

to cause a sudden shock or surprise, resulting in a quick, involuntary reaction

Transitive: to startle a person or animal

Examples

The loud clap of thunder startled the sleeping dog, causing it to jump up.

The unexpected appearance of the spider startled the arachnophobic person, who screamed and ran away.

Startle

an unexpected reflex or response triggered by shock or fear

flinch

jump

shudder

start

Examples

The unexpected loud noise caused a startle in the crowd.

She gave a startle when the cat jumped onto her lap unexpectedly.

Lexical Tree

startled

startling

startle

Nearby Words

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