Bristled

/ˈbrɪs.əld/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To stand upright away from the skin, as hair or fur does, typically in response to fear, aggression, or excitement.

The dog bristled at the intruder, its fur standing on end.

To react in an angry or defensive manner.

She bristled at the criticism, feeling it was unjustified.

adjective

Covered or adorned with short, stiff hair or bristles.

The bristled brush was perfect for cleaning the dirt from the shoes.

Middle English bristlen, from bristle.

bristle with anger

to react with evident anger or hostility.

bristles at

to show annoyance or defensiveness about something.

bristle

to become stiff or erect.

spiky

having sharp points that resemble bristles.

to get defensive or upset quickly

He really bristled when she mentioned his mistake.

to show annoyance visibly

She bristled at the suggestion that she was wrong.