Definition of Startle reaction

1. Noun. A complicated involuntary reaction to a sudden unexpected stimulus (especially a loud noise); involves flexion of most skeletal muscles and a variety of visceral reactions.

Exact synonyms: Startle Response
Generic synonyms: Jump, Start, Startle

Lexicographical Neighbors of Startle Reaction

starting line
starting motor
starting pitcher
starting pitchers
starting point
starting points
starting post
starting signal
starting stalls
starting time
starting up
startingly
startings
startish
startle
startle reaction (current term)
startle reflex
startle response
startled
startlement
startlements
startler
startlers
startles
startling
startlingly
startlish
startly
starts
starts up

Literary usage of Startle reaction

Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:

1. Disaster Response and Recovery: A Handbook for Mental Health Professionals by Diane Meyers (1996)
"... the throat" Exaggerated startle reaction Fatigue Menstrual cycle changes Change in sexual desire Decreased resistance to infection Flare-up of allergies ..."

2. Psychosocial Issues for Children and Families in Disasters: A Guide for the by Stanford B. Friedman (1996)
"... interests or sense of foreshortened future. 3. Increased sleep disturbances, irritability, poor concentration, startle reaction, and regression. ..."

3. Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorders edited by Richard A. Rawson, Rose M. Urban (2000)
"They may have a pronounced startle reaction, CNS instability, and prolonged and inconsolable crying. A few have signs of vascular disruptions and, rarely, ..."

4. Psychological Consequences of Disasters: Prevention and Management (1993)
"There is usually a state of autonomie hyperarousal with hypervigilance, and enhanced startle reaction, and insomnia. Anxiety and depression are commonly ..."

5. Missing the Lifeboat? by Gyeorgos Ceres Hatonn (1994)
"startle reaction: Permanent combat alert; one is constantly on guard, startles easily, sometimes with violent reactions. Avoidance: Rejection of people, ..."

6. The Kassandra Complex by Murray Lawrence, Lawrence Murray (2003)
"Fortunately, George had not noted the startle reaction of John on hearing unexpectedly the word: guardians. The news that their non-prodigal brother was ..."

7. The Guardians by Murray Lawrence, Lawrence Murray (2002)
"Aurens, not seeing the startle reaction from the Abbé to this unexpected display of erudition, continued: "The action in these tales takes place early in ..."

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