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.

Last month, it was caught by Mythos, the latest AI model from Anthropic that has spooked the White House, banking executives and cybersecurity professionals around the world.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Iran’s ramp-up of attacks has spooked investors even though efforts have been made to increase the supply of oil.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 13, 2026

The downturn has spooked would-be homebuyers, dampened investment and left many major projects unfinished after several of the sectors' top firms defaulted.

From Barron's • Oct. 17, 2025

For entrepreneur Ulrichia Rabefitiavana, the uncertainty has spooked several of her international clients, who have cancelled contracts for training and seminar events.

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

How it has spooked me to hear that.

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez