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startled

adjective

/ˈstɑr tld/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of startled

Being surprised or taken aback by a sudden, unexpected event or stimulus.
"She gave a startled yelp when the balloon popped suddenly."

Detailed meaning of startled

It refers to the immediate reaction of someone or something that has been startled. When a person is startled, they typically exhibit a momentary loss of composure or a sudden physical or emotional response, such as jumping, gasping, or experiencing a quick increase in heart rate. The startled state often includes a sense of being caught off guard or feeling momentarily disoriented. It can also be accompanied by a heightened sense of alertness or increased vigilance as the person processes and reacts to the unexpected situation. Overall, being startled denotes a temporary disruption of one's normal state of calm or readiness due to an unforeseen occurrence.

Example sentences containing startled

1. The startled expression on his face showed his surprise.
2. The loud bang outside startled the sleeping baby.
3. Startled by the sudden movement, the deer dashed away into the woods.
4. I let out a startled gasp when the cat jumped on the table unexpectedly.
5. The startled look in her eyes revealed her shock at the unexpected news.
6. He had a startled reaction when the fireworks exploded overhead.

History and etymology of startled

The adjective 'startled' is a derivative of the verb 'startle,' which has its roots in Old English and Middle English. It can be traced back to the Old English word 'styrtlian,' meaning to jump up or move suddenly. Over time, this sense of sudden movement or reaction gave rise to the modern meaning of 'startled,' which describes the state of being surprised or taken aback by a sudden and unexpected event or stimulus. This etymology highlights the connection between the verb 'startle' and the adjective 'startled,' both of which capture the experience of a swift and often involuntary response to an unforeseen situation.

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Further usage examples of startled

1. The sudden thunderclap left us all startled and on edge.
2. The startled squirrel scurried up the tree, alarmed by our presence.
3. A startled bird took flight as we approached, fluttering its wings frantically.
4. His startled response indicated that he hadn't anticipated the outcome.
5. The startled dog barked loudly when the doorbell rang unexpectedly.
6. She was startled by the sudden thunderclap outside her window.
7. His startled expression told me he had no idea about the surprise party.
8. The startled deer froze in the headlights of the oncoming car.
9. I was startled to find a hidden passage behind the bookshelf.
10. The unexpected news left her startled and speechless.
11. A startled gasp escaped her lips as the magician revealed his trick.
12. The loud crash startled everyone in the room.
13. The startled cat leaped into the air when the door slammed shut.
14. My startled reaction caught the attention of the entire class.
15. He had a startled look on his face when he saw the ghostly figure.
16. The sudden change in weather left us all feeling startled.
17. As I turned the corner, I was startled by a barking dog.
18. Her startled expression quickly turned to relief when she realized it was just a prank.
19. The unexpected visitor at the door left me startled and confused.
20. I was startled by the loud noise coming from the construction site.
21. The startled expression on his face revealed his surprise.
22. The startling twist in the plot took the audience by surprise.
23. She was startled when her phone suddenly started ringing.
24. The startled reaction from the crowd was deafening.
25. I was startled to see my own reflection in the darkened window.