Startling
ˈstɑːrtlɪŋ
Definitions
Causing sudden shock, alarm, or surprise; surprising or unexpected.
ˈstɑːrtlɪŋ
Causing sudden fear, surprise, or alarm.
The startling change in the weather caught everyone off guard.
💡 Simply: It's like when you're walking and a loud noise suddenly scares you. Something startling is something that catches you off guard and makes you jump or feel surprised.
👶 For kids: When something is surprising and makes you jump a little bit because you didn't expect it.
More Examples
Her startling announcement made everyone in the room silent.
The startling similarities between the two cases raised eyebrows.
The film's startling visuals kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
How It's Used
"The startling news of his resignation shocked everyone."
"The startling increase in crime rates was reported in the local newspaper."
"A startling discovery was made in the ancient ruins."
From the verb "startle", which comes from Middle English "sterten" (to leap, start suddenly) + "-ling" (forming adjectives).
The word has been used since the late 16th century and initially related to the physical act of leaping or starting.
Memory tip
Think of a sudden jump. Startling things make you jump!