"reaction" Definition

Definitions for the word "reaction" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
Any action in resisting other action or force; counter tendency; movement in a contrary direction; reverse action.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
The mutual or reciprocal action of chemical agents upon each other, or the action upon such chemical agents of some form of energy, as heat, light, or electricity, resulting in a chemical change in one or more of these agents, with the production of new compounds or the manifestation of distinctive characters. See Blowpipe reaction, Flame reaction, under Blowpipe, and Flame.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
An action induced by vital resistance to some other action; depression or exhaustion of vital force consequent on overexertion or overstimulation; heightened activity and overaction succeeding depression or shock.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
The force which a body subjected to the action of a force from another body exerts upon the latter body in the opposite direction.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
Backward tendency or movement after revolution, reform, or great progress in any direction.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
1 reacting, response. 2 bad physical response to a drug etc. 3 occurrence of a condition after a period of its opposite. 4 tendency to oppose change or reform. 5 interaction of substances undergoing chemical change.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "reaction" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "reaction" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
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