REEL BACK Meaning and
Definition
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Reel back is a phrasal verb that refers to a sudden or reflexive backward movement or reaction. When someone or something reels back, they quickly move backward, often due to surprise, shock, or an intense emotional or physical impact.
In a literal sense, "reel back" can describe a physical movement. For instance, if someone unexpectedly encounters an obstacle, they may reel back to avoid colliding with it. Similarly, when startled, a person might reel back in surprise, instinctively recoiling and stepping backward.
Figuratively, "reel back" can also describe an emotional or mental reaction. For example, if someone hears a shocking news or a disturbing revelation, they may metaphorically reel back as a consequence of this unexpected information. It implies a sudden and significant shift in their thoughts, beliefs, or understanding, causing them to retreat or emotionally withdraw momentarily.
"Reel back" often conveys a sense of being taken off guard, caught off balance, or startled by something unexpected. It is typically used to depict a rapid and instinctive response, either physical or emotional, in moments when one is taken by surprise or faced with a sudden and startling event or revelation.
In summary, "reel back" refers to a sudden backward movement or reaction, both physically and metaphorically, usually as a response to an unexpected or startling event or circumstance.
Common Misspellings for REEL BACK
- reeback
- real back
- eeel back
- deel back
- teel back
- 5eel back
- 4eel back
- rwel back
- rsel back
- rdel back
- rrel back
- r4el back
- r3el back
- rewl back
- resl back
- redl back
- rerl back
- re4l back
- re3l back
- reek back
Etymology of REEL BACK
The phrase "reel back" consists of two words: "reel" and "back".
1. Reel: The term "reel" derives from the Old English word "hreol", which means "a rotatory device used for winding a rope, cord, or thread". This word has roots in Germanic languages and is related to the Dutch word "reel" and the German word "Rolle", both meaning "reel" or "roller". Over time, "reel" extended its meaning to refer to a spool or cylinder around which something, like film or fishing line, can be wound. Consequently, the term "reel" came to represent a motion characterized by spinning or winding rapidly, which is the basis for the use of "reel" in phrases like "reel back" or "reel in".
Idioms with the word REEL BACK
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reel back (from sth)
The idiom "reel back (from sth)" means to react or respond in shock, surprise, or disbelief to something. It often describes a sudden and instinctive physical or emotional recoil or retreat from a situation or statement.
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reel back
To physically or mentally stagger or retreat, often due to shock or surprise.
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