startle meaning and definition

STARTLE noun

Definition of startle (noun)

1. a sudden involuntary movement
   • "he awoke with a start"
   • synonyms: jump, start

STARTLE verb

Definition of startle (verb)

1. to stimulate to action
   • "..startled him awake"; "galvanized into action"
   • synonyms: galvanise, galvanize
2. move or jump suddenly, as if in surprise or alarm
   • "She startled when I walked into the room"
   • synonyms: jump, start