bridle

== English == === Etymology === From Middle English bridel, from Old English brīdel, from Proto-West Germanic *brigdil, from Proto-Germanic *brigdilaz (“strap, rein”), equivalent to braid +‎ -le. === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈbɹaɪdəl/ Homophone: bridal Rhymes: -aɪdəl === Noun === bridle (plural bridles) (equestrianism) The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins. (figurative) A restraint; a curb; a check. A length of line or cable attached to two parts of something to spread the force of a pull, as the rigging on a kite for attaching line. A mooring hawser. A piece in the interior of a gunlock which holds in place the tumbler, sear, etc. A gesture expressing pride or vanity. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== === Verb === bridle (third-person singular simple present bridles, present participle bridling, simple past and past participle bridled) (transitive) To put a bridle on. (transitive) To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue. (intransitive) To show hostility or resentment. Immigrant-rights and religious organizations bridled at the plan to favor highly skilled workers over relatives. (Houston Chronicle, 6/8/2007) (intransitive) To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly. ==== Synonyms ==== restrain ==== Derived terms ==== bridle up unbridle ==== Translations ==== === Anagrams === birled, Bridel, Rebild == Middle English == === Noun === bridle alternative form of bridel == Old English == === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈbriːd.le/ === Noun === brīdle dative singular of brīdel