v. i.
Why shrinks the soul
Back on herself, and startles at destruction? Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t.
The supposition, at least, that angels do sometimes assume bodies need not startle us. Locke. [ 1913 Webster ]
n. A sudden motion or shock caused by an unexpected alarm, surprise, or apprehension of danger. [ 1913 Webster ]
After having recovered from my first startle, I was very well pleased with the accident. Spectator. [ 1913 Webster ]
adv. In a startling manner. [ 1913 Webster ]
a. Easily startled; apt to start; startish; skittish; -- said especially of a horse. [ Colloq. ] [ 1913 Webster ]