React
/riˈækt/
Meaning & Definition
verb
to respond to something by taking action or making a change.
She decided to react quickly to the emergency situation.
to undergo a chemical change as a result of interaction with another substance.
When vinegar and baking soda are mixed, they react to produce carbon dioxide.
to return to a previous state or condition as a response to an event.
He tends to react negatively to criticism.
to exhibit a response to a stimulus.
The patient will react to the medication within a few hours.
Etymology
From the Latin 'reactus', meaning 'to act again'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
react to
To respond to a situation or stimulus.
react against
To oppose or resist a trend or idea.
knee-jerk reaction
An automatic or reflexive response.
Related Words
action
The process of doing something.
response
A verbal or written answer.
Slang Meanings
Reacting dramatically or overly emotionally.
She totally reacted when she found out about the surprise party.