double take
noun
dou·ble take
ˈdə-bəl-ˌtāk 
: a delayed reaction to a surprising or significant situation after an initial failure to notice anything unusual
—usually used in the phrase do a double take
Examples of double take in a Sentence
His parents did a double take when he came home with a tattoo.
Recent Examples on the Web
Still, while the couple have experienced different chapters throughout their relationship, Guy's recent transformation had Lori doing a double take.
—
Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 27 Jan. 2026
Since his starring days at Gonzaga, Timme has earned bewildered double takes.
—Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2026
Hugh Jackman is making fans do a double take with his latest rugged movie transformation.
—Lara Walsh, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026
Made to order in Italy, the pieces are a fantasia—glassware that invites a double take, if not a double pour.
—Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Robb Report, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for double take
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Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 27 Jan. 2026
Since his starring days at Gonzaga, Timme has earned bewildered double takes.
—Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2026
Hugh Jackman is making fans do a double take with his latest rugged movie transformation.
—Lara Walsh, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026
Made to order in Italy, the pieces are a fantasia—glassware that invites a double take, if not a double pour.
—Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Robb Report, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for double take
Cite this Entry
“Double take.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double%20take. Accessed 29 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
double take
noun
dou·ble take
ˈdəb-əl-ˌtāk
: a delayed reaction to a surprising or unusual situation after first failing to notice anything unusual
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