Definition of reactionnext
as in response
action or behavior that is done in return to other action or behavior we were startled by her extreme reaction to being jilted by her boyfriend

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reaction Such a capability will not only keep human crews safe but also drastically increase offensive range and reaction times in battle. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 18 July 2026 Yamal’s Spain teammate Mikel Merino had the same reaction as most people who see the photos. Joseph Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2026 One of the biggest mistakes that business leaders make amid expansion is assuming customers in new markets have the same wants, needs, emotional reactions and behaviors. Andrea Aker, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026 The Greeks’ invasion of Troy is a reaction to that violation. Eliana Dockterman, Time, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reaction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reaction
Noun
  • Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened to halt more energy export routes from the Middle East in response to the US military reimposing a naval blockade of ships going to and from Iranian ports.
    Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
  • Molinar’s settlement is equal to the sum of one year’s salary and benefits, according to the separation agreement released by Fort Worth ISD officials on Tuesday in response to an open records request.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026
Noun
  • After careful physical analysis of six ancient princesses buried beneath the pyramids at Dahshur, researchers now have an answer.
    Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 17 July 2026
  • After the Heat sent four players and a haul of draft capital to the Bucks to land Antetokounmpo and veteran forward Bobby Portis this offseason, Antetokounmpo, 31, will finally get his answer.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reaction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reaction. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on reaction

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster