Startledly

Startledly is an adverb that describes an action performed with surprise, alarm, or sudden fright. It indicates that the subject reacted quickly and unexpectedly to something that caught their attention. This reaction is often visible in the form of physical changes like jumping, gasping, or widening one's eyes, as well as emotional shifts like fear or confusion. The degree of being 'startledly' varies depending on the intensity of the stimulus and the individual's susceptibility to surprise. It emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the reaction.

Startledly meaning with examples

• The cat, startledly by the loud crash of thunder, leaped from the windowsill and hid under the bed. Its fur bristled, and its eyes darted around the room, searching for the source of the frightening noise. It then stayed there, trembling and listening intently.
• As the magician produced a dove from his hat, the young girl startledly gasped, her eyes widening with wonder and disbelief. The sudden appearance of the bird completely caught her off guard, creating an emotional experience that was both magical and exhilarating.
• Hearing his name called from behind, John turned around startledly, dropping his coffee in his hands. He had been lost in thought and completely missed the approaching person; the voice jolted him from his daydream and induced a mess.
• A sudden, loud siren blared from the fire truck as it passed. Sarah turned startledly towards the sound, her hand flying to her chest. Her heartbeat quickened as the blaring noise caused her to question what was going on in the neighborhood.
• The hiker, startledly by the sudden rustling in the bushes, froze mid-step. His heart pounded in his chest as he slowly reached for his camera, expecting to see a bear emerge; instead, a small rabbit hopped out.