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Reeling - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Reeling means to stagger or sway unsteadily, often due to shock, dizziness, or a physical blow. It can also describe feeling overwhelmed or disoriented by strong emotions or events.

reeling

/ˈriːlɪŋ/ /ˈriːlɪŋ/

Definition:

Moving unsteadily or feeling dizzy, often due to shock or disorientation.

Synonyms:

staggering, swaying, tottering, whirling

Part of Speech:

verb, adjective

Antonyms:

steady, stable

Common Collocations:

reeling from shock, reeling in pain, reeling with dizziness

Derivatives:

reeled, reels

Usage Tips:

Use "reeling" to describe physical unsteadiness or emotional overwhelm after a sudden event.

Common Phrases:

reeling from the news, reeling in disbelief, reeling like a drunk

Etymology:

From Old English *hrēol*, meaning "a reel" (for winding thread), later extended to unsteady motion.

Examples:

  • 1. She was still reeling from the unexpected news.
  • 2. The boxer was reeling after the powerful punch.
  • 3. He walked away, reeling from the emotional confrontation.
  • 4. The boat was reeling in the stormy waves.

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