Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

startle

verb
/ˈstɑːrtl/
Definition
To cause someone to feel sudden shock or alarm.
Examples
  • The loud noise from the fireworks can easily startle pets.
  • She was startled by the unexpected touch on her shoulder.
  • The sudden movement of the car startled the pedestrians.
Meaning
To make someone suddenly feel surprised or frightened by something unexpected.
Synonyms
  • shock
  • surprise
  • frighten
  • jump
  • alarm