Synonyms for

Startled

Verb / ˈstɑ:rtʌld / Another word for startled — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling or showing sudden shock or alarm

Synonyms & similar words

startle galvanize start galvanise jump surprised shocked astonished nervous jumpy frightened terrified panicked anxious uneasy apprehensive discomposed disconcerted disturbed flustered perturbed rattled spooked

Synonyms by register

Formal

alarmed apprehensive disconcerted taken aback

Informal

spooked jumpy shook freaked out

Literary

aghast bewildered astonied

Antonyms

calm composed unconcerned relaxed unfazed serene placid

Common collocations

  • suddenly startled
  • startled by a noise
  • startled awake
  • startled look
  • startled gasp
  • startled reaction
  • startled from sleep

Word family

verb startle
adjective startling
adverb startlingly

Usage note

Startled implies a sudden, brief fright or surprise. It is often used to describe a reaction to an unexpected sound or movement.

Example sentences

  1. I was startled by the loud noise.
  2. The sudden movement of the bug startled me.
  3. The cat was startled by the dog barking.
  4. I didn't mean to startle you.
  5. The unexpected visitor startled the family.

Quotes

  • The unexpected always happens in life. That's what makes it unexpected and exciting. If not, everything would be predictable and boring, wouldn't it? So, don't be startled or afraid of the unknown. It is precisely when nothing is certain that anything is possible.
  • Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get. - Forrest Gump
  • Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds. - William Shakespeare

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