Pronunciation: [ɹˈiːlɪŋ] (IPA) 
Reeling /ˈriːlɪŋ/ is a verb that means to lose one's balance or to feel dizzy. The word is spelled with two "E"s and one "L". The first "E" makes a long "E" sound, like in "beet". The second "E" makes a short "I" sound, like in "ill". The "L" is pronounced as a clear /l/ sound. The word can also be used to describe a fishing rod or a dance move. Make sure to spell "reeling" correctly to avoid confusion with similar sounding words.
The term "reeling" is primarily used as a verb and generally refers to the action of being in a state of extreme confusion, dizziness, or shock, often resulting from a sudden impact, physical injury, or an overwhelming emotional experience. It typically implies a loss of balance, both in the physical and metaphorical sense, making it difficult to think or act coherently.
Physically, reeling can be characterized by an unsteady or swaying movement of the body, similar to the sensation experienced when spinning rapidly or after consuming excessive alcohol. Metaphorically, reeling describes a mental and emotional state of being overwhelmed or thrown off balance, usually due to unexpected circumstances or being faced with a traumatic event.
The term is often used to depict the aftermath of a sudden blow, such as hearing shocking news, enduring a physical injury, or experiencing a traumatic event. In these instances, individuals may feel disoriented, lightheaded, or mentally incapacitated, struggling to regain control of their thoughts and emotions. Reeling typically implies a temporary state of confusion that gradually subsides as individuals regain their composure.
Overall, "reeling" represents a state of distress and disarray, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional, characterized by a loss of equilibrium and a sense of being overwhelmed.
• A staggering; a vacillating walk.
• The process of winding thread, cotton, silk, &c., into a skein.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "reeling" has its origins in the Old English word "hrēolung", which derived from the verb "hrēolan". This Old English term meant "to whirl or spin round, to reel". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic word "*hrēulōną". The verb evolved over time and eventually gave rise to the Middle English word "relen" or "reilen", which also meant "to reel or stagger". The spelling variations "rele" and "relle" were also used during this period. By the late 14th century, "reeling" started to be used as a noun to describe the action of reeling or the state of being dizzy or unsteady. Throughout its evolution, the word has maintained a consistent meaning related to spinning, whirling, or unsteadiness.
