Startled
'stɑːrtld
Definitions
2 meaningsTo cause someone to experience a sudden, minor fright or surprise.
'stɑːrtəl
To cause someone to feel sudden shock or alarm.
The sudden clap of thunder startled the dog.
💡 Simply: When something unexpected happens, and you jump or are surprised. Imagine you're walking in the woods, and a squirrel suddenly jumps out in front of you – you would be startled!
👶 For kids: To make someone jump because something unexpected happened.
More Examples
The unexpected phone call startled him out of his sleep.
She was startled by the sudden change in temperature.
How It's Used
"The loud noise startled the baby."
"The sudden appearance of the ghost startled her."
Feeling or showing sudden fear or surprise.
'stɑːrtld
Feeling or showing sudden alarm or fright.
The startled child ran to his mother.
💡 Simply: When you look like you just got a surprise. Imagine you're reading a book, and someone yells 'Boo!' you'd have a startled face.
👶 For kids: Looking surprised or scared.
More Examples
Her startled reaction made him laugh.
He gave a startled look.
How It's Used
"The startled look on her face revealed her surprise."
"Researchers observed the startled responses of the participants."
Synonyms
Alarm
Frighten
Shock
Alarmed
Astonished
Frightened
Shocked
Idioms & expressions
startled into action
To be forced into action by a sudden event or shock.
"The emergency alarm startled them into action."
From Middle English *stertlen*, from Old English *styrtlian* ('to move suddenly, leap'), from Proto-Germanic *sturtilōną*, related to *steort* ('tail, end').
The word 'startle' has been used since the 14th century to describe a sudden movement of surprise or fear.
Memory tip
Think of a sudden jolt, like when you jump at a loud noise.