reeling

American  

[ree-ling] / ˈri lɪŋ /

adjective

1. staggering or swaying; unable to walk straight because of a blow, intoxication, etc..

   It seemed as if a reeling, drunken giant had set the route for the race—it was so full of twists and turns.

2. in a state of mental or emotional shock; overwhelmed.

   As a reeling nation mourns its dead, investigators are trying to determine whether anyone was aware of the homicidal plan.

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Etymology

Origin of reeling

reel ² ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Families of the district’s more than 390,000 students are reeling with the prospect of life routines thrown into days of uncertainty.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Three major airlines have hiked their checked-bag fees this month, in another blow for travelers still reeling from long TSA lines and increased airfare.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Viewers who aren’t reeling from the reveal in their theater seat will have just as much to parse from “The Drama” as those who go in totally blind.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The energy supply crunch has also impacted India's ceramics and fertiliser industries, while the aviation industry is reportedly reeling under sky-rocketing jet fuel prices.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

My mind is reeling at how she agreed with Hannah, that it’s hard to see our friendship in the right light.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon