bridle
3 synonyms and 1 antonym for bridle, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The straps and bit fitted to a horse's head to guide and control it.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The straps and bit fitted to a horse's head to guide and control it.
“She slipped the bridle over the horse's head before the ride.”
2. verb
To react with anger, resentment, or indignation.
“She bridled at the suggestion that she had lied.”
Opposites
unbridle
How to use bridle
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
bridle at a remark
bridle one's anger
horse and bridle
Etymology
From Old English brīdel, an old Germanic word for a strap or rein, related to the verb "braid".
Full origin of bridle →Frequently asked questions
What does “bridle” mean?
The word “bridle” means the straps and bit fitted to a horse's head to guide and control it. In plain terms, the gear used to steer a horse, or figuratively, to hold something back — and as a verb, to bristle with indignation.
How do you pronounce “bridle”?
“Bridle” is pronounced BREYE-duhl (/ˈbɹaɪdəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “bridle” in a sentence?
Here is “bridle” used in a sentence: “She slipped the bridle over the horse's head before the ride.”
What is another word for “bridle”?
Words with a similar meaning to “bridle” include restrain.
What part of speech is “bridle”?
Depending on how it is used, “bridle” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “bridle” come from?
The word “bridle” comes from Old English. From Old English brīdel, an old Germanic word for a strap or rein, related to the verb "braid".
How many meanings does “bridle” have?
“Bridle” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the straps and bit fitted to a horse's head to guide and control it.
