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Definition of startling

startling

/ˈstɑːrt.lɪŋ/
star · tling
Adverb:startlingly
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startling Lexical Profile

startling Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Very surprising, astonishing, or remarkable, especially in a way that causes sudden shock or alarm.

Example

"The researchers uncovered a startling correlation between sleep deprivation and long-term memory loss."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for startling

• Nearby Words

start
starter
startle
startling
startlingly
startup
starvation

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'startle', which derives from Middle English 'stertlen' and Old English 'steartlian' (meaning to kick, struggle, or stumble), a frequentative form related to 'start'.

Cite this Entry

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