startle
verb (used with object)
to disturb or agitate suddenly as by surprise or alarm.
had been startling
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past perfect progressiveof startle.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The space that Lingard found inside the area had been startling and was part of the reason why Guardiola was in such an animated mood on the touchline.
From The Guardian ● Dec. 7, 2019
During his voyage around the world, his encounters with natives had been startling and enlightening.
From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman
The effect of her father's testimony or rather confession upon Annunziata had been startling.
From Monte-Cristo's Daughter by Edmund Flagg
If the effect upon Patricia of Gustave's announcement had been startling, that upon the rest of the company was galvanic.
From Patricia Brent, Spinster by Herbert George Jenkins
For all that, the girl's assertions had been startling, and once more Anthea wished that she had not heard them.
From Thrice Armed by Harold Bindloss
