reaction

n.

1. An answer

   response, reply, rejoinder, reception, receptivity, return, feedback, feeling, opinion, reflection, counteraction, resistance, backlash, attitude, retort, reciprocation, repercussion, effect, reflex; see also answer 1, opinion 1, result.

   Reactions to stimuli include: contraction, expansion, dilation, constriction, jerk, knee jerk, tropism, heliotropism, phototropism, cognition, shock, exhaustion, stupor, anger, disgust, revulsion, fear, joy, laughter, wonder.

2. A backward tendency, especially in politics

   conservatism, backlash, status quo, rightism, toryism, retrenchment, regression, relapse, retrogression, retreat, withdrawal, backsliding, return to normalcy, return to the good old days; see also conservatism, stability 1.