noun
- the state of being startled; sudden surprise or alarm
Usage: formal
Examples
- Her startlement was evident when the door slammed shut.
- The sudden noise caused a moment of startlement among the audience.
- He tried to hide his startlement at the unexpected news.
- The cat’s startlement at the loud thunder was obvious.
- She recovered quickly from her initial startlement.
- The startlement in his eyes revealed his genuine surprise.