Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

reel-in

phrasal verb

/ril ɪn/

Definition

To pull something back or towards oneself, often by winding a line around a reel or in a figurative sense, to bring someone or something back to a desired state.

Examples

After several difficult conversations, she managed to reel in his affection.
The fisherman was excited to reel in his first big catch of the day.
To reel in potential customers, the company launched a vibrant marketing campaign.

Meaning

The term ‘reel-in’ describes the action of drawing in or attracting someone or something, usually with effort or intention. It can refer to fishing—bringing in a catch—or metaphorically, to attracting attention or interest.