Reeled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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reeled

[riหld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

fishing

Reeled refers to the action of winding or retrieving a fishing line using a reel. In fishing, this term is often used when the angler pulls the line back in after a catch or to reposition their bait. The process of reeling can also involve adjusting the tension of the fishing line to prevent it from snapping. This action is crucial for maintaining control over the fish and is an essential skill for any angler.

Synonyms

retrieved, spooled, wound.

Examples of usage

  • He reeled in the fish quickly.
  • She learned how to reel properly after several attempts.
  • The angler reeled back after feeling a tug on the line.
Context #2 | Verb

movement

To reel can also mean to move unsteadily or staggeringly as if losing balance. This usage often describes a state of dizziness or confusion, typically after a sudden shock or impact. When someone reels, they may appear to sway or spin as they try to regain their composure, making this term applicable in both physical and emotional contexts.

Synonyms

staggered, swayed, wobbled.

Examples of usage

  • She reeled from the unexpected news.
  • After the fall, he reeled before finding his footing.
  • The impact of the collision made him reel backwards.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Reeling can used metaphorically in psychology to describe the initial shock after receiving unexpected news, causing confusion.
  • Emotions can create a 'dizzy' feeling similar to spinning, making it hard to think clearly or act decisively.
  • The term is often applied in therapy to help describe the experience of being overwhelmed by oneโ€™s feelings or experiences.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often use the term 'reeled' to express feelings of confusion or being swept away by love or heartbreak.
  • In movies, characters may 'reel' from shocking news or events, accentuating the emotional impact for audiences.
  • The term can signify characters losing control in thrillers, enhancing suspense when they are caught off guard.

Science

  • In physics, 'reeling' can refer to motion that is not linear, often involving forces that make an object spin or twist.
  • Motion sickness has similarities to the sensation of reeling, where the inner ear senses a displacement that conflicts with visual signals.
  • In a broader context, 'reeled in' can refer to the process of withdrawing or bringing in data or information in a scientific research context.

Literature

  • In literature, authors frequently use 'reeled' to convey characters' emotional tumult or journeys of introspection.
  • The term evokes powerful imagery in poetry, often relating to the cyclical nature of life and experiences.
  • Classic novels often describe protagonists 'reeling' from decisions or revelations that alter the course of their lives.

Origin of 'reeled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'reeled' comes from the Old English 'hrฤ“ol', which referred to a 'wheel or reel' used for spinning yarn and indicates a twisting motion.
  • It evolved to describe the action of something winding around or being pulled, leading to a feeling of dizziness.
  • In the 16th century, it began to be used metaphorically to describe emotional or psychological states, such as feeling overwhelmed.

The word 'reeled' originates from the Middle English 'relen' or 'rele', derived from the Old English 'rวฃl', which means a spool or a reel - a device used for winding up threads or lines. The term has historically been associated with the fishing industry, where reels were invented as aids for angling. Over the centuries, 'reel' evolved in English usage to encompass not just the physical act of winding a line but also metaphorically describe states of confusion or unsteadiness. The evolution of the word also reflects advancements in fishing technology and practices, representing a balance between utility in the physical sense and the complexity of human emotion.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,248, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.