Unreeled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”„
Add to dictionary

unreeled

[สŒnหˆriหld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

Unreeled refers to the action of unwinding or releasing something that has been wound or coiled, such as film, string, or rope. It is often used to describe the process of letting out or displaying something in a linear fashion. The word can also imply a gradual or uncontrolled release of information or ideas. Commonly, it is used in activities related to filmmaking or physical tasks that involve unspooling materials.

Synonyms

released, unspooled, unwound.

Examples of usage

  • She unreeled the tape from the dispenser.
  • The film unreeled smoothly on the projector.
  • He unreeled the fishing line carefully.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cinematic Usage

  • In film, when a movie is 'unreeled', it refers to the projector's action of running the film through, creating the experience of watching.
  • Directors often use the term metaphorically when discussing the unfolding of important plot points, almost like letting a story flow out from a spool.
  • Classic cinema showcased silent films that would be literally unreeled in theaters, an experience that is fondly remembered today.

Literature

  • The term is often used in narratives to describe the gradual unfolding of events or secrets, much like uncoiling a tightly wound thread.
  • In poetry, 'unreeled' may symbolize revelation, as if hidden truths are being laid out before the reader.
  • Famous authors have employed the concept of unrolling stories, where tension builds until the climax unreeled dramatically.

Psychological Perspective

  • The act of unreeled can represent the mental process of recalling memories, where thoughts diagrammatically 'come out' from one's mind.
  • Psychologists suggest that allowing feelings and thoughts to be 'unreeled' can lead to emotional catharsis and relief in therapeutic settings.
  • The mind often 'unreels' memories or experiences when someone reflects deeply, akin to unwinding a complicated thread.

Origin of 'unreeled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'unreeled' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'reverse', combined with 'reeled', which is from the Old French word 'rel', meaning 'to wind'.
  • In older contexts, 'reel' was often associated with fishing lines, where it means to wind the line back onto a cylinder.
  • The transition to 'unreeled' capturing the motion of unwinding was first noted in literature around the late 19th century.

The term 'unreeled' originates from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'to reverse or remove', combined with 'reeled', which stems from the word 'reel' referring to a cylindrical device used to wind up materials, commonly threads or wires. The word 'reel' itself can be traced back to Middle English 'rele' or Old English 'hreol', which indicated a round object for winding. The usage of 'unreeled' in its verb form highlights the action of unwinding or releasing from such a device. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both physical and figurative meanings, expanding into contexts such as film projection and information sharing. Its application can be seen in both everyday language and technical fields, showcasing its versatility and relevance in modern discourse.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,297, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.