startle
verb (used with object)
to disturb or agitate suddenly as by surprise or alarm.
had startled
-
past perfectof startle.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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 initial announcement of SpaceX’s bond sale had startled some investors, some of whom sold their shares.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 23, 2026
The promo and opening essay on American Short Fiction’s home page had startled her: a photograph of Larson, side-by-side with a shot of the short-fiction titan Raymond Carver.
From New York Times ● Oct. 5, 2021
The 73-year-old matriarch of the rowdy Robertson crew had startled the sleeping canine when she leaned over to kiss him goodnight, causing Bobo to snap at Kay in a split instant.
From Fox News ● Jul. 31, 2021
Back in 2017, the first Wonder Woman had startled me by making me cry in the multiplex.
From Slate ● Dec. 29, 2020
He had turned toward his mother, whom the crash of the razor had startled and alarmed but not really frightened.
From "Franny and Zooey" by J. D. Salinger
