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
-
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
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Detainees describe electric shocks, rubber bullets, exposure to cold, scarce food and water, and overflowing bathrooms at Israel’s Ktzi’ot prison.—
Mogomotsi Magome,
Los Angeles Times,
23 May 2026
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The combo left Gualtieri lying on the ropes with a look of shock on his face as the referee started his count.—
Nathan Canilao,
Mercury News,
23 May 2026
Noun
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The screen cut to black before showing how Belle and Cal responded to the surprise attack.—
Julia Moore,
PEOPLE,
25 May 2026
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The Angels completed a surprise sweep of the Rangers Sunday, but the team still is tied for the worst record in Major League Baseball with a 20-34.—
Joaquin Ruiz,
Los Angeles Times,
25 May 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Startlement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/startlement. Accessed 26 May. 2026.
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