Meaning & Definition of word "Bridle"

Bridle

/ˈbraɪ.dl/

noun:

  • 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.

verb:

  • 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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

to bridle one's anger:

to control or restrain one's anger

bridled with enthusiasm:

restrained yet visible enthusiasm

Related Words

reining:

the act of controlling a horse using the reins

gleaming:

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

Slang Meanings of bridle

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.