Meaning & Definition of word "Reel"

Reel

/riːl/

1. A cylindrical object on which film, wire, or other flexible materials can be wound.
- Example: He carefully placed the film reel onto the projector.
2. A device for winding or unwinding a line, such as fishing line or cable.
- Example: After catching the fish, she cranked the reel to pull the line back in.

1. To wind a line or material onto a reel.
- Example: He had to reel in the fishing line after the cast.
2. To walk or move in an unsteady way, as if about to fall.
- Example: After spinning around, she began to reel and had to hold onto the wall for support.
3. To feel a sense of confusion or disorientation.
- Example: The shocking news made her head reel.

Middle English, from Old English 'hreol', meaning 'a cylinder or spool'.

reel in:

To bring something towards oneself by winding it in.

reel with:

To feel overwhelmed or confused by something.

reel off:

To produce something quickly or effortlessly.

roll:

To move in a circular course.

spool:

A cylindrical device on which thread, wire, or tape can be wound.

whirl:

To move in a circular or spiral motion.

Meaning: To be overwhelmed or shocked.

Example Sentence: After that surprise party, I was totally reeling.

Meaning: To go through a tough emotional experience.

Example Sentence: She's still reeling from the breakup.