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.

The bear attacked the hiker after he apparently startled the animal.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

Cenet said he was startled to see that "everyday life continued" on the ship after the captain's announcement.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

I was surprised to see “Lorne” touch on both of these factors, and even more startled to find myself respecting Michaels’ reluctance to apologize for any of his decisions.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026

He startled Beijing by taking Tsai’s congratulatory call on his election, making him the first U.S. president-elect to speak directly to a Taiwanese leader since 1979, when Washington severed formal diplomatic ties with the island.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

“Edda,” he says, startled, looking over and seeing me standing in the doorway.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse