recoil

A starting or falling back; a rebound; a shrinking.

The state or condition of having recoiled.

(firearms) The energy transmitted back to the shooter from a firearm which has fired. Recoil is a function of the weight of the weapon, the weight of the projectile, and the speed at which it leaves the muzzle.

An escapement in which, after each beat, the scape-wheel recoils slightly.