recoil
verb (used without object)
to draw back; start or shrink back, as in alarm, horror, or disgust.
had recoiled
-
past perfectof recoil.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For years, BND officials had recoiled at their American counterpart’s refusal to distinguish adversaries from allies.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 11, 2020
Some New York business leaders, who had recoiled at Mr. Trump’s candidacy, say privately that they are hoping Mr. Kushner will be a moderating influence on the new president.
From New York Times ● Nov. 19, 2016
Just as it had recoiled from Nationalist China, crying "Corruption," so in 1951 the U.S. recoiled from the corruption, hatred, fanaticism and disorganization of the Middle East.
From Time Magazine Archive
Among the newly confident buyers were foreign investors, who had recoiled in the aftermath of Black Monday and whose return had been considered doubtful.
From Time Magazine Archive
Gabe had recoiled in horror when Jonas had related Einars terrible history to him.
From "Son" by Lois Lowry
