Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (v. i.) To draw back, as from anything repugnant, distressing, alarming, or the like; to shrink.

2. (v. i.) To start, roll, bound, spring, or fall back; to take a reverse motion; to be driven or forced backward; to return.

3. (v. i.) To turn or go back; to withdraw one's self; to retire.

4. (v. t.) To draw or go back.

5. (n.) A starting or falling back; a rebound; a shrinking; as, the recoil of nature, or of the blood.

6. (n.) The state or condition of having recoiled.

7. (n.) Specifically, the reaction or rebounding of a firearm when discharged.