English Explanatory Dictionary

bridle

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins.
  2. A restraint; a curb; a check.
  3. 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.
  4. A mooring hawser.
  5. A piece in the interior of a gunlock which holds in place the tumbler, sear, etc.
  6. A gesture expressing pride or vanity.
verb
  1. To put a bridle on.
  2. To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue.
  3. To show hostility or resentment.
  4. To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly.

Pronunciation

/ˈbɹaɪdəl/ en-us-bridle.ogg

Word forms

bridle bridles bridling bridled

Etymology

From Middle English bridel, from Old English brīdel, from Proto-West Germanic *brigdil, from Proto-Germanic *brigdilaz (“strap, rein”), equivalent to braid + -le.

Synonyms

restrain

Derived words

bridle gate bridle iron bridleless bridlelike bridle-path bridle path bridlepath bridler bridle trail bridleway bridlewise bridle wrist double bridle draw bridle scold's bridle whim-wham for a goose's bridle wigwam for a goose's bridle witch's bridle bridle up unbridle
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