Rein

rān

Meaning & Definition

noun

A long, narrow strap attached to a bit that is used to guide or control a horse.

She pulled on the rein to slow the horse down.

The power to control or guide; authority or influence.

He took the rein of the project after the previous manager left.

verb

To check or guide a horse by means of reins.

She reined in the horse as they approached the steep hill.

To restrain or control something.

The government plans to rein in inflation through policy measures.

Middle English, from Old French 'reine', from Latin 'regina' meaning 'queen'.

give free rein

To allow someone to act freely without restrictions.

take the reins

To assume control or leadership.

keep a tight rein

To maintain strict control or supervision over something.

bridle

A device used to control a horse, including the reins.

lead

To guide or direct, often using a leash or reins.

To take control of a situation.

He really knows how to rein in the chaos during the meeting.

To limit or moderate something.

We need to rein in our spending this month.