Spooked

To become suddenly frightened or alarmed; to be scared or unnerved. This reaction can be triggered by an unexpected event, a perceived threat, or a situation that feels unsettling. It often involves a physical response like jumping, a racing heart, or a heightened sense of awareness. The intensity of being Spooked can range from mild apprehension to extreme terror. The term often implies a temporary state of fear, and the cause of the fear can be readily identifiable, though sometimes the source remains unclear, causing further unease.

Spooked meaning with examples

• The sudden loud clap of thunder Spooked the cat, causing it to leap off the windowsill and hide under the bed. It took a while to coax the scared cat back out. She trembled as the thunder boomed again. Her large eyes darted around seeking to confirm where the sound originated from. That storm really did spook her!
• During the haunted house visit, the realistic effects and actors jumping out from the shadows Spooked the young children. They cried and clung to their parents for comfort. It was a bit much for some of them. The experience did, however, encourage laughter. Afterwards, the adults also reflected on the experiences.
• The hiker was Spooked when a large, shadowy figure moved in the woods, its identity unclear. Every noise sounded like a threat. They quickly returned to the car and didn't venture back into the woods. The fear was immediate and overwhelming. Their instincts shouted 'danger!'.
• After a series of strange occurrences in the old house, the new residents were increasingly spooked. They thought there may be a paranormal presence. Every creak and groan of the house amplified their worries. As they had never experienced anything like it, the terror grew day by day.
• The underdog team, after a surprising victory, Spooked their more experienced rivals, who underestimated their opponent's skills. After a shaky start, the favorite team soon regained control. The unexpected victory caused the underdog team to rise to the top and spook the competition in the league.