vt to deter; to cause to deviate.
2. startle ·vt to move suddenly, or be excited, on feeling alarm; to start.
3. startle ·noun a sudden motion or shock caused by an unexpected alarm, surprise, or apprehension of danger.
4. startle ·vt to excite by sudden alarm, surprise, or apprehension; to frighten suddenly and not seriously; to alarm; to surprise.