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Definition of startle

startle

/ˈstɑːr.təl/
star · tle
Adverb:startlingly
•
Plural:startles
•
Adjective:startling
•
Past Simple:startled
•
Past Participle:startled
•
Present Participle:startling
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startle Lexical Profile

startle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To cause a person or animal to feel sudden shock, alarm, or surprise.

Example

"The sudden clap of thunder startled the sleeping cat."

2

To jump, flinch, or move suddenly in reaction to an unexpected stimulus.

Example

"Young deer startle easily when they hear twigs snapping in the woods."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A sudden shock, alarm, or involuntary movement caused by an unexpected stimulus.

Example

"The sudden knock at the window gave her a brief startle."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for startle

• Nearby Words

starstruck
start
starter
startle
startling
startlingly
startup

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English stertlen, from Old English steartlian ('to kick with the feet, struggle, stumble'), a frequentative form related to start.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Startle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/startle
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