Collins English-English Dictionary

reel [riːl]

1. 1. n any of various cylindrical objects or frames that turn on an axis and onto which film, magnetic tape, paper tape, wire, thread, etc, may be wound spool

2. 2. n [angling] a device for winding, casting, etc, consisting of a revolving spool with a handle, attached to a fishing rod

3. 3. n a roll of celluloid exhibiting a sequence of photographs to be projected

4. 4. vt. [tr] to wind (cotton, thread, etc) onto a reel

5. 5. vt. [foll by in, out etc] to wind or draw with a reel

   to reel in a fish

6. 6. vt. [Etymology] Old English hreol; related to Old Norse hræll weaver's rod, Greek krekein to weave

reel [riːl]

1. 1. vb [mainly intr] to sway, esp under the shock of a blow or through dizziness or drunkenness

2. 2. vb to whirl about or have the feeling of whirling about

   his brain reeled

3. 3. n a staggering or swaying motion or sensation

4. 4. n [Etymology] C14 relen, probably from reel¹

reel [riːl]

1. 1. n any of various lively Scottish dances, such as the eightsome reel and foursome reel for a fixed number of couples who combine in square and circular formations

2. 2. n a piece of music having eight quavers to the bar composed for or in the rhythm of this dance

3. 3. n [Etymology] C18: from reel²