Meaning & Definition of word "Bridle"

Bridle

/ˈbraɪ.dl/

1. A headgear for a horse, consisting of straps and a bit for guiding and controlling the animal.
- Example: She adjusted the bridle before mounting her horse.
2. The part of a harness that fits over the horse's head.
- Example: The bridle was made of finely crafted leather.

1. To put a bridle on a horse; to harness or control.
- Example: He bridled the horse carefully to avoid startling it.
2. To restrain or control, as in one's emotions or desires.
- Example: She tried to bridle her anger during the meeting.

Middle English 'bridil', from Old English 'bridel', of Germanic origin.

to bridle one's anger:

to control or restrain one's anger

bridled with enthusiasm:

restrained yet visible enthusiasm

reining:

the act of controlling a horse using the reins

gleaming:

a bright or shining quality, sometimes used figuratively in riding context

Meaning: To take control of a situation often overshadowed by chaos.

Example Sentence: He needed to bridle his reckless team before the project went off the rails.

Meaning: To hold back or restrain oneself.

Example Sentence: She had to bridle her temper during the meeting.