1. moved back suddenly in fear, shock, or disgust
Usage: past tense of recoil
2. jerked or kicked back suddenly when fired
Usage: past tense of recoil; used of firearms

Examples

• She recoiled when she saw the spider on her desk.
• He recoiled in horror at the gruesome scene.
• The rifle recoiled sharply against his shoulder.
• The child recoiled from the stranger’s touch.
• The gun recoiled with surprising force.
• She recoiled at the thought of eating insects.
• The snake recoiled when threatened.