1. to move back suddenly in fear, shock, or disgust
2. to spring back after being released or hitting something

1. a sudden backward movement, especially of a gun when fired
2. a feeling of shock or disgust

Examples

• She recoiled in horror at the sight of the spider.
• The rifle’s recoil knocked him backward.
• He recoiled from the unpleasant smell.
• The spring recoiled when I released it.
• The gun’s recoil was stronger than expected.
• There was a public recoil against the new policy.
• The rubber band recoiled and snapped back into place.