The meaning of STARTLE is to move or jump suddenly (as in surprise or alarm). How to use startle in a sentence.

STARTLE definition: to disturb or agitate suddenly as by surprise or alarm. See examples of startle used in a sentence.

The sound of a plane flying overhead may startle you, as can the sound of the air conditioner kicking on or turning off.

To alarm, frighten, or surprise suddenly. See Synonyms at frighten. To become alarmed, frightened, or surprised. n. 1. A sudden, brief episode of fear. 2. A sudden, involuntary movement in response to …

startle in British English (ˈstɑːtəl ) verb to be or cause to be surprised or frightened, esp so as to start involuntarily

A startle is a quick, sharp movement, like a little jump that happens when you’re surprised or suddenly scared. If you sneak up on your mom and say "Boo!" you’ll startle her and she might jump up in her …

Dec 14, 2025 · startle (plural startles) A sudden motion or shock caused by an unexpected alarm, surprise, or apprehension of danger. quotations

Definition of startle verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

STARTLE meaning: 1 : to surprise or frighten (someone) suddenly and usually not seriously often used as (be) startled; 2 : to move or jump suddenly because something surprises you or frightens you

There are 14 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb startle, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.