startle

To cause to make a quick involuntary movement or start.

To alarm, frighten, or surprise suddenly. synonym: frighten.

To become alarmed, frightened, or surprised.

A sudden, brief episode of fear.

A sudden, involuntary movement in response to something frightening or unexpected, such as a noise.

A sudden movement or shock caused by surprise, alarm, or apprehension of danger; a start.

To start; manifest fear, alarm, surprise, pain, or similar emotion by a sudden involuntary start.

To wince; shrink.

To move suddenly, as if surprised or frightened.

To take to flight, as in panic; stampede, as cattle.