säikähdä

Säikähdä is a Finnish verb that translates to "to be startled," "to be scared," or "to be frightened" in English. It describes a sudden, involuntary reaction of fear or surprise, often in response to an unexpected event or stimulus. The verb is commonly used in everyday conversation to express a mild to moderate level of apprehension or alarm.

The word "säikähdä" can be used in various contexts. For example, one might "säikähdä" a loud noise, a sudden movement, or an unexpected appearance. It can also describe a situation where someone is frightened by a thought or a possibility. While it generally implies a temporary and often short-lived feeling, the intensity can vary depending on the situation and the individual's disposition.

The verb is derived from the onomatopoeic root "säi," which imitates a sudden sharp sound. This connection to sound further emphasizes the suddenness and unexpectedness often associated with being startled. The grammatical form of "säikähdä" is a passive verb, reflecting the involuntary nature of the reaction it describes. It is a common verb in the Finnish language, frequently used by speakers of all ages.