startlingly
UK: /ˈstɑːt.lɪŋ.li/ | US: /ˈstɑːrt.lɪŋ.li/
adv. in a way that causes sudden shock or surprise
adv. strikingly or remarkably
The word "startlingly" derives from the verb "startle," which originated in Middle English as "stertlen," meaning "to move suddenly" or "to leap up." This traces back to Old English "styrtan," meaning "to jump up." The suffix "-ing" forms the present participle, and "-ly" converts it into an adverb. The progression reflects a shift from physical movement ("leap") to emotional reaction ("shock"), emphasizing suddenness and intensity.
The fireworks exploded startlingly loud in the quiet night.
She was startlingly beautiful in her vintage dress.
His test scores improved startlingly after just a month of tutoring.
The documentary revealed startlingly high levels of pollution in the river.
The actor’s performance was startlingly realistic.