startle etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English: starten, from Old English: steortan ("to start, leap, rear up")
  • Proto-West Germanic: *sturtan
  • Proto-Indo-European: *stér- ("to spread out, stretch")

Meaning:

  • To be suddenly and involuntarily frightened by a sudden noise or movement

Origin:

The word "startle" originates from the Proto-Indo-European root *stér-, which means "to spread out" or "to stretch." This root is also found in other English words such as "stir," "stern," and "star."

In the case of "startle," the root *stér- is used to describe the sudden and involuntary movement of the body that occurs when someone is frightened. This movement is a natural reflex that helps to protect the body from potential danger.

The word "startle" was first used in the 14th century and has been in continuous use ever since. It is a commonly used word that can be used in a variety of contexts.

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