startle
verb/ˈstɑrtəl/
Frequency rank: #17,340 of 20,003 in the WORDED list (wordfreq data)
Meaning
to cause someone to feel sudden shock or surprise.
Example sentence
The sudden loud noise will startle anyone who is not expecting it.
Synonyms & related words
More words in ranks 17,301–17,400
- scuttleto sink a ship deliberately by making holes in the hull; also to scurry or run with short quick steps.
- seltzerplain or flavored carbonated water.
- skywardToward or in the direction of the sky; upward.
- spinsteran older woman who has never married.
- squalora state of being extremely dirty, poor, and miserable.
- staunchlyin a very loyal and committed way; firmly and steadfastly.
- steadfastlyIn a way that is firm, determined, and unwavering.
- stubbyShort and thick in shape.
- subterfugeA deceptive strategy or trick used to achieve a goal or avoid a difficult situation.
- superchargera device that forces extra air into an engine to increase its power output.