reeling

[ree-ling]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of reeling¹

reel ² ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Then he pantomimed reeling in a fish and finding nothing on the hook.

Read more on Literature

Still reeling from the shock of it all, Penelope looked around the carriage.

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The most powerful band of a large atmospheric river storm slammed into Southern California on Saturday, dumping much-needed rain across the region but also bringing mudslide dangers to communities still reeling from January’s firestorms.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The worst of the crisis is over, but the industry is still reeling from disruptions as it prepares for the inevitable holiday chaos.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The Browns are reeling, coming off an embarrassing loss to the hapless Jets, while the Ravens are starting to regroup and surge.

Read more on Los Angeles Times