real or reel? Do not confuse the spelling of real and reel, which sound similar. Real is chiefly used as an adjective, meaning "existing," "factual," or "genuine," as in the real world, her real name, real silk. Reel is used as a noun and verb referring to a cylindrical device on which something is wound (as in a reel of thread, reel in a fishing line), a lively dance (as in the Virginia reel), or a staggering movement (as in reeling from the shock). |