as in surprising
causing a strong emotional reaction because of unexpectedness
the startling news that my sister will be having a baby
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in amazing
to make a strong impression on (someone) with something unexpected
the lightning startled the children and sent them scurrying for cover
Synonyms & Similar Words
2
as in jumping
to move suddenly and sharply (as in surprise)
the cat startled when the door slammed shut with a bang
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in frightening
to strike with fear
loud noises always startle her
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of startling
Nik Popli,
Time,
11 June 2026
The cold cost of the transfer laid bare is startling.
—
Chris McKenna,
New York Times,
11 June 2026
Maura Fox,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
27 Mar. 2026
Hauge called that startling, given that court filing fees alone cost just as much.
—
Frederick Melo,
Twin Cities,
4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for startling
Adjective
The scale of the production is startling, even by the standards of a presidency that has often embraced spectacle.
—
Nik Popli,
Time,
11 June 2026
The cold cost of the transfer laid bare is startling.
—
Chris McKenna,
New York Times,
11 June 2026
Verb
Some cyclists sped by pretty quickly, startling us and our dog.
—
Maura Fox,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
27 Mar. 2026
Hauge called that startling, given that court filing fees alone cost just as much.
—
Frederick Melo,
Twin Cities,
4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for startling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for startling
Adjective
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This surprising mix of cripsy prosciutto, Parmesan wafers, figs, and nuts will be a hit at your next party.
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Within these nearly three dozen documents are a bunch of curious, surprising, and illuminating things about this year’s Emmy hopefuls.
Verb
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In one camp Gao Sheng breaks a cultural norm by helping her father and uncles with a big project, amazing her relatives with her physical and mental strength.
Verb
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Metro Detroit drivers might notice gas station prices jumping 10 to 20 cents a gallon around July 1.
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But jumping back in too quickly or pushing yourself too hard are some of the fastest ways to get injured.
Verb
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Powell tried to open the stall door, and then began fondling himself, frightening the 11-year-old, who tried to leave, but Powell blocked him from getting out.
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This war has been a disaster for them, frightening away foreign investors, tourists and talent and burdening them with a future of huge new defense bills to deter Iran after the United States is gone.
Adjective
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Deidre Hall delivered her most shocking slap yet on live TV on June 19.
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Ahead of the episode, Raba spoke to the Star-Telegram about his journey playing this character and what’s next for Joaquin after the shocking reveal.
Verb
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Margaret deploys this power to find Daniel and to free him from Noah and the WARDEX minions—essentially, by stunning them emotionally.
Verb
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Advertisement Defender Alex Freeman’s insurance goal in the 43rd minute wasn’t just notable for the athleticism Freeman displayed on a leaping header.
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Dial it over to Sport mode, and the VLE is properly perky, leaping forward with just a modest flex of your right ankle.
Verb
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Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon is breathtaking and also terrifying with a 4-year-old along.
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Facing the endless Cylon onslaught in the void of space is terrifying even in 2D battles, but many of Scattered Hopes' gut punches happen during unexpected narrative events or tough choices that doom entire ship populations.
Cite this Entry
“Startling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/startling. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.
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