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 described one instance when he was startled by the scorer walking with his group and his vision suddenly went blurry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

I was so startled I could barely find my words but, before I could say anything, she apologized.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler