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.

In a move that startled many customers, sustainable fashion retailer Everlane has been acquired by Shein.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

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

I was so startled by what Papa had said, I couldn’t say a word.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls