First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1bridle
noun bri·dle \ˈbrī-dəl\
: a device that fits on a horse's head and that is used for guiding and controlling the horse
Full Definition of BRIDLE
1
: the headgear with which a horse is governed and which carries a bit and reins
2
: a length of line or cable attached to two parts of something to spread the force of a pull; especially : rigging on a kite for attaching line
See bridle defined for English-language learners
See bridle defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of BRIDLE
Middle English bridel, from Old English brīdel; akin to Old English bregdan to move quickly — more at braid
2bridle
verb
: to put a bridle on (a horse)
: to react in an angry way
bri·dledbri·dling \ˈbrīd-liŋ, ˈbrī-dəl-iŋ\
Full Definition of BRIDLE
transitive verb
1
: to put a bridle on
2
: to restrain, check, or control with or as if with a bridle <bridle your tongue>
intransitive verb
: to show hostility or resentment (as to an affront to one's pride or dignity) especially by drawing back the head and chin
See bridle defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of BRIDLE
before 12th century
Related to BRIDLE
Synonym Discussion of BRIDLE
restrain, check, curb, bridle mean to hold back from or control in doing something. restrain suggests holding back by force or persuasion from acting or from going to extremes <restrained themselves from laughing>. check implies restraining or impeding a progress, activity, or impetus <trying to check government spending>. curb suggests an abrupt or drastic checking <learn to curb your appetite>. bridle implies keeping under control by subduing or holding in <bridle an impulse to throw the book down>.
BRIDLED Defined for Kids
1bridle
noun bri·dle \ˈbrī-dəl\
Definition of BRIDLE for Kids
: a device for controlling a horse made up of a set of straps enclosing the head, a bit, and a pair of reins
2bridle
verb
bri·dledbri·dling \ˈbrīd-liŋ, ˈbrī-dəl-iŋ\
Definition of BRIDLE for Kids
1
: to put a bridle on <bridle a horse>
2
: restrain 2 <He tried to bridle his anger.>
3
: to hold the head high and draw in the chin as an expression of resentment
Medical Dictionary
bridle
noun bri·dle \ˈbrīd-əl\
Learn More About BRIDLE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: bridle cablePrevious Word in the Dictionary: bridging speciesAll Words Near: bridle
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up bridle? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).