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

“I think today is perfectly emblematic of the whiplash environment,” said Kevin Gordon, head of macro research and strategy for the Schwab Center for Financial Research.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 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

Investors will get a reprieve from all the market whiplash on Presidents Day—at least in the U.S.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

The Siemens Energy transformer factory in North Carolina is a prime example of the demand whiplash.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

I couldn’t keep up with the emotional whiplash.

From "A Very Large Expanse of Sea" by Tahereh Mafi