bridle

1. 1

   The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins.

   • […] the horseman, who is the user of bridles and knows their use
2. 2

   A restraint; a curb; a check.figuratively

   • Let wisdom put a bridle on them before they are grown head-strong and unruly
3. 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. 4

   A mooring hawser.

5. 5

   A piece in the interior of a gunlock which holds in place the tumbler, sear, etc.

6. 6

   A gesture expressing pride or vanity.

1. 1

   To put a bridle on.transitive

   • He bridled her mouth with a silkweed twist.
2. 2

   To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue.transitive

   • Savoy and Nice, the keys of Italy, and the citadel in her hands to bridle Switzerland, are in that consolidation.
3. 3

   To show hostility or resentment.intransitive

   • Immigrant-rights and religious organizations bridled at the plan to favor highly skilled workers over relatives. (Houston Chronicle, 6/8/2007)
4. 4

   To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly.intransitive

syn. restrain