n. & v.
n. 1 a the headgear used to control a horse, consisting of buckled leather straps, a metal bit, and reins. b a restraining thing or influence (put a bridle on your tongue). 2 Naut. a mooring-cable. 3 Physiol. a ligament checking the motion of a part.
v. 1 tr. put a bridle on (a horse etc.). 2 tr. bring under control; curb. 3 intr. (often foll. by up) express offence, resentment, etc., esp. by throwing up the head and drawing in the chin. bridle-path (or -road or -way) a rough path or road fit only for riders or walkers, not vehicles.
[ OE bridel ]