recoil
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈkɔɪl/
KK: /rɪˈkoɪl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move back suddenly or quickly, often because of fear or surprise.
Example
When the gun fired, he felt himself recoil from the loud noise.
Tense Forms
Past: recoiled
Past Participle: recoiled
Conversation
Did you see that scary movie last night?
Yeah, I did! I recoil every time something jumped out.
Right? I couldn't help but recoil during those jump scares.
Same here! It's funny how we always know they're coming but still react.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
flinch
shrink
withdraw
Antonyms
advance
approach
confront
noun
Definition
The action of moving back suddenly, especially after being fired or hit.
Example
The recoil of the gun surprised him, pushing him back a step.
Conversation
Did you feel the recoil when you fired that gun at the range?
Yeah, it was pretty strong, but I liked it.
It surprised me how much the recoil affected my aim.
Root Explanation
Recoil → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "coiler" (from Old French *coiler*, meaning to coil or wind). The word describes the action of springing back or winding back after being pushed forward.
Memory Tip
Think of something that springs 'back' ('re-') after being 'coiled' ('coiler') — that's why recoil means to spring back.
Visually Confused Words
precoil
reoil
resoil
reboil
encoil
roil
rectorial
precoiler