bridle

Meaning

Noun

1. The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins.
2. (figuratively) 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. (transitive) To put a bridle on.
2. (transitive) To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue.
3. (intransitive) To show hostility or resentment.
4. (intransitive) To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly.

Synonyms

rein

curb

bit

reins

restrain

control

halter

check

repress

retain

ride

hold back

inhibit

squelch

snaffle

stem

stifle

break

detain

suppress

trimmer

oppress

brake

twine

vine

withhold

hold up one’s head

keep under control

trimmer joist

trimmer beam

snaffle-bit

pôr rédea

bridle trimmer

trim joist

spanner band

arrester

crow's foot

bring to heel

cable

cord

harness

hawser

headgear

headstall

joist

leash

limiter

moderate

narrow

painter

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Translations

bride

briglia

brida

Zaum

χαλινάρι

brider

frenum

Zaumzeug

zäumen

Zügel

imbrigliare

zügeln

frein

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈbɹaɪdəl/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: bridel

Inherited from Old English: brīdel

In summary

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