Whiplash

/ˈwɪpˌlæʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A neck injury resulting from the sudden jerking of the head, often occurring in automobile accidents.

After the car accident, she was diagnosed with whiplash and advised to rest.

A sudden or explosive change in direction or policy.

The government’s whiplash in policy regarding climate change left many citizens confused.

verb

To cause to move suddenly and violently, similar to the action of a whip.

The sudden movement of the car whiplashed her head back.

The term derives from the action of a whip, which snaps back and forth.

whiplash injury

An injury resulting from the sudden movement of the neck.

whiplash effect

The impact or consequences of a sudden change or action.

cervical

Pertaining to the neck.

strain

An injury resulting from overstretching.

A sudden, surprising change in emotions or situations.

After the breakup, I felt a whiplash of emotions.

Experiencing life's sudden changes.

The news hit me like whiplash.