startling

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 jarring sound ended up startling visitors out of the experience, rather than drawing them in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

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

Still holding her hand, he pushed his face forward and looked at her intensely, startling her, but then he laughed.

From "A Place to Belong" by Cynthia Kadohata