startler
One who jolts
Something that startles—a sudden noise, unexpected sight, or surprising piece of news that makes you jump or catches you off guard.
The word is uncommon but transparent: The movie's final twist was a real startler.
Any person or thing capable of producing a startle reaction qualifies.
Shocking sudden revelation
- revelationSurprising disclosed truth
- twistRotating motion or surprise
- curveballPitch with spin-induced arc
- upsetDisturb, topple, or shock
shocker · eye-opener · astonishment · bewilderment · disbelief · ambush · gotcha · double-take
Undead flesh-eating demon
- bogeymanImaginary childhood terror
- phantomInsubstantial apparition
- specterGhostly threatening presence
- horrorExtreme fear or disgust
spook · haunt · scarecrow · nightmare · monster · jump-scare · creep · apparition
bombshell
Shocking sudden revelation
- revelationSurprising disclosed truth
- twistRotating motion or surprise
- curveballPitch with spin-induced arc
upset · shocker · eye-opener · astonishment · bewilderment · disbelief · ambush · gotcha · double-take · jaw-dropper
ghoul
Undead flesh-eating demon
- bogeymanImaginary childhood terror
- phantomInsubstantial apparition
- specterGhostly threatening presence
horror · spook · haunt · scarecrow · nightmare · monster · jump-scare · creep · apparition · poltergeist
siren
Wailing alert device
buzzer · klaxon · detector · sensor · bell · signal · jolt · shake
flinch
Involuntary retreat from threat
recoil · shudder · yelp · scream · adrenaline · fight-or-flight · spasm · lurch
startlersoother
What brings relief
calmer · tranquilizer · sedative · comforter · reassurer
- startle reflexInvoluntary reaction to sudden stimuli
- startle responseInvoluntary reaction to surprise
- startle displayAntipredator surprise tactic