Reel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reel

[riหl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fishing equipment

A reel is a cylindrical device used for winding and unwinding fishing line. It is typically attached to a fishing rod and plays a crucial role in catching fish by allowing the angler to retrieve the line quickly. Reels come in various types, including spinning reels and baitcasting reels, each designed for specific fishing techniques. The reel's drag system also allows the angler to control the tension on the line while reeling in a catch.

Synonyms

bobbin, spool, winder.

Examples of usage

  • He cast his line and started to reel in the fish.
  • Make sure to adjust the drag on your reel before starting.
  • The spinning reel is great for beginners.
  • She heard the sound of the reel clicking as the fish swam away.
Context #2 | Verb

fishing action

To reel means to wind or draw in something, particularly fishing line, using a reel. This action is crucial when catching fish as it allows the angler to retrieve their catch efficiently. The technique can vary depending on the type of fish and the fishing method used. It can also refer to the action of winding up other materials on a spindle or similar device.

Synonyms

draw in, retrieve, wind.

Examples of usage

  • She began to reel in her line quickly as she felt a tug.
  • After casting, you have to reel in slowly.
  • As the fish pulled away, he tightened his grip on the reel.
  • He learned to reel in with a steady motion.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Reels are crucial in film making; traditionally, films were shot on physical reels before being digitized.
  • In social media, 'Reels' refers to a feature on platforms like Instagram, allowing users to create short, engaging videos.
  • The concept of 'reeling in a catch' is often used metaphorically in songs and literature to describe capturing someoneโ€™s heart or attention.

Science

  • In physics, the mechanics of a reelโ€”how force is applied and how tension affects rotationโ€”are important in studies of motion.
  • Reels are often studied in engineering to optimize design for better performance in various tools and machines.
  • The efficiency of a fishing reel can depend on the piezoelectric effects during reeling, impacting how line is tensioned.

Sport

  • In fishing sports, different types of reels (like spinning and baitcasting) are used, each with its own techniques and advantages.
  • Tournaments often showcase skillful 'reeling' techniques, demonstrating the finesse required to catch fish.
  • The construction of fishing reels has evolved with new materials, improving durability and strength.

Literature

  • The term 'reel' appears in classic literature as a metaphor for life's unpredictability, often referencing reels spinning out of control.
  • In poetry, 'reel' can symbolize the ups and downs of emotions, where feelings are wound tightly and then released.
  • Narrative structures in stories can mirror a reel, turning scenes in cyclical or unexpected ways, much like a film.

Origin of 'reel'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'reel' comes from the Old English term 'reola,' which means a spool or a cylinder for winding.
  • In the 14th century, it began to be associated with fishing gear as fishing techniques evolved.
  • The transition of the term from textile industry use to fishing demonstrates how language adapts to tools we create.

The word 'reel' comes from the Old English 'reol', which referred to a spinning or winding tool. This term is connected to similar words in Middle Dutch and German, like 'roele' and 'rolle', meaning wheel or roll. Initially, the concept of the reel was used in various trades, from textile spinning to fishing, where items needed to be wound or stored in a cylindrical form. By the 15th century, the term began to be closely associated with fishing gear, particularly as fishing became a popular activity. The design and functionality of reels have advanced over the centuries, resulting in a variety of types tailored for different fishing techniques. Today, the reel is an essential tool for anglers, embodying both tradition and innovation in fishing equipment.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,315, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.