whiplash

American  

[hwip-lash, wip-] / ˈʰwɪpˌlæʃ, ˈwɪp- /

noun

1. the lash of a whip.

2. an abrupt snapping motion or change of direction resembling the lash of a whip.

3. Also whiplash injury. a neck injury caused by a sudden jerking backward, forward, or both, of the head.

   Whiplash resulted when their car was struck from behind.

4. Also called whiplash curve.  a connected series of reverse curves of more or less elliptical form, used as a major design motif in the Art Nouveau style.

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verb (used with object)

1. to beat, hit, throw, etc., with or as if with a whiplash.

2. to affect adversely, as by a sudden change.

   new taxes whiplashing corporate earnings.

whiplash British  

/ ˈwɪpˌlæʃ /

noun

1. a quick lash or stroke of a whip or like that of a whip

2. med See whiplash injury

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Etymology

Origin of whiplash

First recorded in 1565–75; 1950–55 whiplash for def. 6; whip + lash ¹

Example Sentences

Turning our heads toward the future aggravates the whiplash induced by rapid change.

From Salon • May 30, 2026

EM economies are taking the brunt of the whiplash.

From Barron's • May 23, 2026

“If you can’t agree to an off-stream investment in this world of weather whiplash, we’re as dumb as we want to be.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Memory prices won’t stay high forever, but if the current shortage leads to a more sustainable business model, the stocks could shed their reputation for causing whiplash.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

Her escorts immediately responded, nearly giving Kendra whiplash as they plummeted into the church and glided to the basement door.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull