startled
UK: ˈstɑː.tld | US: ˈstɑːr.tld
adj. suddenly surprised or alarmed
v. (past tense of startle) to cause someone to feel sudden shock or alarm
startle = start<to jump or move suddenly> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- start (from Old English styrtan, meaning "to leap up" or "to jump")
- le (a frequentative suffix in English, indicating repeated or habitual action, as in dazzle or sparkle)
Etymology Origin:
The word startle originates from the Old English styrtan, which described sudden physical movements like jumping or bolting. Over time, the suffix -le was added to imply a repeated or reflexive action, shifting the meaning toward a sudden reaction to surprise or alarm. The modern sense retains this vivid imagery of an involuntary physical or emotional "jump."
She looked startled when the door slammed shut.
The loud noise startled the birds into flight.
His sudden appearance startled me.
The dog was startled by the fireworks.
A startled gasp escaped her lips.