Recoiled

The past tense of 'recoil', the verb describing the act of springing back or retreating suddenly, often as a reaction to fear, surprise, or disgust. The term can also imply withdrawing from something unpleasant or harmful. In physical contexts, 'recoiled' can refer to the backward motion of a spring or an object upon impact or release. The emotional or metaphorical use implies a reaction that is instinctual and reflexive.

Recoiled meaning with examples

• As the snake slithered closer, Jane recoiled in terror, her heart racing at the thought of being bit. The instinct to flee overwhelmed her, and she stumbled backward, her mind racing with fear. The primal reaction was swift, a testament to her fight-or-flight response. In that moment, all her thoughts dissolved into pure survival instinct, causing her to instinctively recoil from the approaching threat.
• When he heard the news of the impending layoffs, Tom recoiled as if struck. The shock of losing his job filled him with dread, making his stomach churn. Unprepared for such a sudden change, he felt his body physically shy away from the unsettling reality. In that moment, the thought of financial insecurity loomed large, causing him to instinctively recoil from the harsh truths presented by the announcement.
• The dentist's tools gleamed menacingly under the bright light, and Maria recoiled in her chair. Memories of her last visit flooded her mind, causing her to instinctively pull back. The fear of sharp instruments and painful procedures made her wish to escape, even though she knew she needed the treatment. Her response was immediate and visceral, a classic reaction to anticipated pain that left her heart pounding.
• Upon seeing the grotesque art piece at the gallery, patrons recoiled in disgust. The vivid colors and shocking imagery were intended to provoke, but many were unprepared. The provocative nature of the artwork drove them to step back, unable to fully engage with the discomfort it evoked. This collective reaction illustrated the power of art to elicit strong emotional responses, from intrigue to outright repulsion.
• As the cold wind whipped around him, David recoiled from the icy blast hitting his face. The sudden change in temperature was startling, sending shivers down his spine. His instincts kicked in as he pulled his jacket tighter, trying to shield himself from the chilling air. The frigid touch reminded him of winter’s harshness, prompting his body to instinctively draw back from the elements.