double take
noun
dou·ble take
ˈdə-bəl-ˌtāk 
: a delayed reaction to a surprising or significant situation after an initial failure to notice anything unusual
—usually used in the phrase do a double take
Examples of double take in a Sentence
His parents did a double take when he came home with a tattoo.
Recent Examples on the Web
Harry Styles made his cab driver do a double take during a recent drive to London.
—
Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 28 Mar. 2025
Ariana Grande's latest makeover is having her fans do a double take.
—Michelle Lee, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025
The senior shortstop has put on 25 pounds of muscle since September, and those who haven’t seen him in a while might be tempted to do a double take.
—Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025
The antique-esque finish of these urns is realistic enough to make guests do a double take, and ask: Is this vintage?
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for double take
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Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 28 Mar. 2025
Ariana Grande's latest makeover is having her fans do a double take.
—Michelle Lee, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025
The senior shortstop has put on 25 pounds of muscle since September, and those who haven’t seen him in a while might be tempted to do a double take.
—Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025
The antique-esque finish of these urns is realistic enough to make guests do a double take, and ask: Is this vintage?
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for double take
Cite this Entry
“Double take.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double%20take. Accessed 11 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
double take
noun
dou·ble take
ˈdəb-əl-ˌtāk
: a delayed reaction to a surprising or unusual situation after first failing to notice anything unusual
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