startle meaning

UK US /ˈstɑrtəl/ 2 syllables

startle (verb): to stimulate to action.

startle has 3 meanings in this dictionary, as verb and noun.

startle as a verb

  1. to stimulate to action
    • the loud noise startled him awake
    • galvanized into action

    Synonyms: galvanize, galvanise

    Type of: shock

  2. move or jump suddenly, as if in surprise or alarm
    • She startled when I walked into the room

    Synonyms: jump, start

    Type of: move

    Kinds: shy, boggle, rear back, jackrabbit

startle as a noun

  1. a sudden involuntary movement
    • he awoke with a start

    Synonyms: jump, start

    Type of: reflex

    Kinds: startle response, startle reflex, wince

How to pronounce startle

startle is pronounced /ˈstɑrtəl/ in American English. It has 2 syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.

Scrabble score: 7 (letter breakdown)

Word lists: words starting with ST · words ending in LE · 7-letter words

More about startle on Wikipedia.