as in astonishment
the state of being strongly impressed by something unexpected or unusual
the look of startlement in her eyes when she found herself at the wedding seated next to her ex-boyfriend
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for startlement
Noun
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Shortly after the first official auction, Kaiser texted Keeney to express astonishment over the strong buzz.—
Mark Medina,
Forbes.com,
23 May 2026 -
To her horrified astonishment, Miss Manners has received a number of letters reporting that guests are taking gross advantage of hospitality by cadging future meals.—
Judith Martin,
Sun Sentinel,
12 May 2026
Noun
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Two years later — to my complete amazement — that idea has become a movement.—
Blake Crisses,
Rolling Stone,
17 May 2026
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To Nico’s amazement, the mysterious house where Gela lives with her faithful dog is actually full of secrets.—
Nick Vivarelli,
Variety,
15 May 2026
Noun
-
No Platner supporter, however, can feel certain that the shocks have ceased.—
David Frum,
The Atlantic,
6 June 2026
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Chloe Demrovsky, a professor at New York University, member of the Coalition for an Insurable Future and former FEMA National Advisory Council member, said most Americans cannot absorb a financial shock of more than $1,000, making insurance a critical safety net.—
Ashley Miznazi,
Miami Herald,
6 June 2026
Noun
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Some of these are already established, but there all but guaranteed to be surprises in store as the tournament gets underway.—
Ian Servantes,
Footwear News,
31 May 2026
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There is a sense of buoyancy in the squad, fresh off a celebratory club-wide parade and Shaw’s surprise signing announcement.—
Megan Feringa,
New York Times,
31 May 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Startlement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/startlement. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.
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