bridle

Meanings

Plural: bridles

Noun

• headgear for a horse; includes a headstall and bit and reins to give the rider or driver control
• the act of restraining power or action or limiting excess
  • "his common sense is a bridle to his quick temper"
• The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins.
• A restraint; a curb; a check.
• 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.
• A mooring hawser.
• A piece in the interior of a gunlock which holds in place the tumbler, sear, etc.
• A gesture expressing pride or vanity.

Verb

• anger or take offense
  • "She bridled at his suggestion to elope"
• put a bridle on
  • "bridle horses"
• respond to the reins, as of horses
• To put a bridle on.
• To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue.
• To show hostility or resentment.
• To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly.

Synonyms

check, curb, restrain

Antonyms

unbridle