spinning reel

noun

: a fishing reel with a nonmoving spool on which the line is wound by means of a revolving arm which can be disengaged to allow the line to spiral freely off the spool during casting

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spinning reel was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spinning reel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spinning%20reel. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

spinning reel

noun
: a fishing reel that has a moving arm which winds the line around the spool and which locks out of the way during casting so the line can wind off freely
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