bridle

Everyday

1. The straps, metal bit and reins put on a horse's head to control it. tree →
2. (verb) To put a bridle on a horse. tree →
3. (verb) To show sudden anger or offence, often by pulling your head up: «she bridled at the remark». tree →
4. (verb) To control or hold back something, like your temper. tree →

In the lessons

In riding lessons and stories about horses, you put on the saddle and bridle. In stories, a character bridles when insulted. A bridleway (UK) is a path for horses, walkers and bikes.

Examples

• She put the bridle on the pony. tree →
• The horse shook its head against the bridle. tree →
• He bridled at being called a baby. tree →
• Hold the reins of the bridle gently. tree →
• We rode along a bridleway through the forest. tree →
• My horse, and bridle, and saddle!" tree →

Note

Do not confuse with «bridal» (about a bride, a wedding) – they sound the same.

In Jewish tradition

A strap for controlling a horse or donkey. It means holding back, as in Proverbs, where a bridle is for the ass.

Interpretation. It is used as a picture of self-control. Tradition says a fool needs strict discipline, just as an animal does.

Examples

• Who shall come within his double bridle? (Writings JOB.41.5, JPS 1917) tree →
• For He hath loosed my cord, and afflicted me, and they have cast off the bridle before me. (Writings JOB.30.11, JPS 1917) tree →
• A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the back of fools. (Writings PRO.26.3, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Do not confuse with «bridal» (about a bride, a wedding) – they sound the same.