startlingness
|start-le-ness|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈstɑːrtlɪŋnəs/
🇬🇧
/ˈstɑːtlɪŋnəs/
(startle)
sudden surprise
Etymology
Etymology Information
'startle' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'startlen,' where 'start' meant 'to jump or leap.'
Historical Evolution
'startlen' transformed into the modern English word 'startle,' and eventually 'startlingness' was derived from 'startle.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to jump or leap suddenly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to surprise or shock.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being surprising or shocking.
The startlingness of the news left everyone speechless.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/28 06:37