Startled Definition & Meaning
startled
- adjective
- excited by sudden surprise or alarm and making a quick involuntary movement; "students startled by the teacher's quiet return"; "the sudden fluttering of the startled pigeons"; "her startled expression"
Usage tips for "startled"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "startled" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for startled to find words that pair well.