# spooked

/ˈspukt/ (US) · /spˈuːkt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spooked
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

feeling sudden fear or nervousness, especially because of something unexpected. You use this when someone or something is easily frightened.

For teachers: feeling sudden alarm or nervousness; easily startled. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'get', 'feel', or 'look'.

## Examples

- The horse got spooked by the loud thunder.
- Investors were spooked by the sudden drop in stock prices and began selling their shares.
- The sudden rustle of leaves in the dark woods left the hikers feeling spooked, making every shadow look like a potential threat.

## Usage notes

- Often follows linking verbs like 'get', 'feel', or 'look'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.