Startle

ALARM

Think of a loud noise that might wake you up in the morning or signal danger—it’s not just a clock’s ring.

Startle" is a straightforward definition clue pointing to a word that means to frighten or surprise someone suddenly. The answer "ALARM" fits perfectly because it can mean both a loud warning sound and the act of causing sudden fear or alertness. There’s no hidden wordplay here—it’s a direct match where the clue and answer share the same core meaning. Think of how an alarm clock jolts you awake or how a fire alarm startles people into action.