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

Since the Iran war started, officials say, some counterterrorism specialists who had been reassigned to immigration have returned to their old roles, creating a whiplash that can disrupt investigations and analysis.

From Salon • Apr. 22, 2026

Taylor Frankie Paul might have whiplash in the wake of a leaked video that derailed her “Bachelorette” debut, but she says her kids are also feeling the sting.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

The tariffs whiplash increased demand for Treasurys, sending yields lower.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

For now, investors seem to be getting whiplash as they try to sort out the winners and losers of the artificial-intelligence boom.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 18, 2026

Leo almost got whiplash trying to look in two places at once.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan