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Definitions

startling

[stahrt-ling, stahr-tl-ing] / ˈstɑrt lɪŋ, ˈstɑr tl ɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
frightful
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONGEST


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.

That the seven of them have stuck together after more than 10 years is startling to many.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Depression and desensitization are fueled by easy access to the most startling, graphic images one could imagine, all one click away.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

It was a startling scene, even for residents like Denise Evans, who has seen it all over the years.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Turning in startling performances in such modest films as “Steve” and “Small Things Like These.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Using more conventional means, however, the private detectives made a startling discovery.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann