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.

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 definition: 1. to do something unexpected that surprises and sometimes worries a person or animal: 2. to do…. Learn more.

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

Startle definition: To cause to make a quick involuntary movement or start.

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 …

5 days ago · Noun startle (plural startles) A sudden motion or shock caused by an unexpected alarm, surprise, or apprehension of danger.

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.

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