Antonyms of Startled with Meaning and Examples 

Antonyms of Startled help learners understand emotions and reactions that are calm, composed, or unaffected by sudden situations. The antonyms of Startled include words such as indifferent, defiant, serene, and unshakable. According to the standard definition, Startled is an adjective used to describe a state of being surprised, shocked, or suddenly alarmed by an unexpected event. Learning its antonyms expands vocabulary and improves clarity while expressing contrasting emotional responses.

Meaning of Startled

The word startled refers to a sudden feeling of surprise or alarm triggered by something unexpected. This reaction often happens instantly and may lead to physical or emotional responses such as jumping, gasping, or briefly freezing. It is commonly used to describe how a person or animal reacts when caught off guard by an abrupt sound, movement, or situation.

Opposites of Startled

To deepen your understanding of the word startled, it is helpful to explore its opposites. These antonyms describe emotional states that reflect calmness, control, confidence, or lack of surprise, helping learners express reactions more precisely in different contexts.

Below is an expanded list of 50 opposites of startled:

• Alert
• Anticipatory
• Apathetic
• Assured
• At ease
• Aware
• Balanced
• Bold
• Brave
• Calm
• Casual
• Collected
• Composed
• Confident
• Cool
• Cool-headed
• Courageous
• Defiant
• Detached
• Expectant
• Fearless
• Grounded
• Indifferent
• Level-headed
• Mindful
• Nonchalant
• Peaceful
• Placid
• Poised
• Prepared
• Ready
• Ready-minded
• Relaxed
• Resolute
• Self-controlled
• Self-possessed
• Serene
• Stable
• Steady
• Stoic
• Tranquil
• Unconcerned
• Undisturbed
• Unexcited
• Unfazed
• Unimpressed
• Unperturbed
• Unshaken
• Unshakable
• Watchful

Also Read: Antonyms of Misogyny with Meaning and Examples

Usage of Startled with Examples

The word startled is used to describe a sudden reaction of surprise or shock caused by an unexpected event, sound, or movement. Its meaning can vary slightly depending on the situation and the speaker’s perspective, as the intensity of the reaction may differ from mild surprise to brief alarm.

Examples:

• She looked startled when the door slammed shut.
• The loud noise startled the sleeping child.
• He appeared startled by the sudden announcement.
• The cat was startled by the sound of thunder.
• They felt startled when the lights went out unexpectedly.

Also Read: Essential Antonyms with Meaning and Examples

Antonyms of Startled Quiz

Test your understanding of the antonyms of startled with the questions below. Choose the most suitable answer in each case.

1. Which word is the best antonym of startled?

a) Shocked

b) Calm

c) Alarmed

d) Surprised

Answer: b) Calm

2. She remained completely ___ during the sudden power cut.

a) Startled

b) Panicked

c) Unfazed

d) Shocked

Answer: c) Unfazed

3. Which of the following words means not easily disturbed or shaken?

a) Nervous

b) Unshakable

c) Startled

d) Anxious

Answer: b) Unshakable

4. The teacher stayed ___ even when the class became noisy.

a) Alarmed

b) Serene

c) Startled

d) Disturbed

Answer: b) Serene

5. Identify the word that does NOT belong to the group.

a) Composed

b) Relaxed

c) Peaceful

d) Frightened

Answer: d) Frightened

6. He looked ___ and confident while handling the unexpected situation.

a) Startled

b) Poised

c) Shocked

d) Afraid

Answer: b) Poised

7. Which antonym of startled shows a lack of concern or interest?

a) Indifferent

b) Nervous

c) Alarmed

d) Panicky

Answer: a) Indifferent

8. The guard stayed ___ and alert throughout the night.

a) Calm

b) Startled

c) Frightened

d) Confused

Answer: a) Calm

9. Which word best fits the sentence: She was completely ___ by the loud noise and did not react at all.

a) Startled

b) Unperturbed

c) Shocked

d) Afraid

Answer: b) Unperturbed

10. Choose the correct antonym of startled from the list below.

a) Panic

b) Fear

c) Composed

d) Surprise

Answer: c) Composed

Explore: Questions of Antonyms for Exams

Understanding the antonyms of startled helps express calm, control, and confidence in different situations. These contrasting words improve clarity, enrich vocabulary, and allow more accurate communication across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.

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