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reaction
/rɪˈækʃən/
response to a stimulus or event
The audience's reaction to the speech was overwhelmingly positive.
The audience responded enthusiastically to the speech.
general
A response to a stimulus, event, or situation.
Her reaction to the news was one of shock and disbelief.
She was shocked and disbelieving when she heard the news.
Can refer to physical, emotional, or chemical responses.
technical
In chemistry, a process in which substances interact to form new substances.
The reaction between sodium and water produces hydrogen gas.
When sodium comes into contact with water, it creates hydrogen gas.
Often used in the context of chemical equations and laboratory experiments.
Collocations
reaction timethe time it takes to respond to a stimuluschemical reactiona process where substances change into new substancesreactionarysomeone who opposes change and favors traditional values
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'reaction' can vary widely depending on the context, so pay attention to the surrounding words.
Gold Rule
Chemical vs. Emotional
In chemistry, 'reaction' refers to a process; in everyday language, it often refers to an emotional or physical response.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'réaction', from Latin 'reactio', meaning 'a doing again' or 'a response'.
Usage Notes
Can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as emotional or chemical reactions.
Word Breakdown
re-
again
prefix-act
to do
root-ion
the state of
suffixEnglish Dictionary