be startled

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.

But even jaded readers will be startled by the scope of the self-organizing tyranny besetting the book world.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

While advocating for tougher social media regulation on a panel about disinformation, Janja Lula da Silva appeared to be startled by a loud noise, joking, "I think it's Elon Musk."

From BBC • Nov. 17, 2024

A person with Tourette disorder might be startled by each separate sound, especially if it increases in volume.

From Science Daily • May 6, 2024

Occasionally a large group of birds will be startled and show up as a ring on the radar detection system, he said.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 17, 2023

Thunderstorm outside the window, that’s why she’s awake, they can hear, they sleep, they can be startled, even there in the soothing of the heart, like waves on the shore around them.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood