BRIDLE

I. noun see: braid Date: before 12th century the headgear with which a horse is governed and which carries a bit and reins, a length of line or cable attached to two parts of something to spread the force of a pull, curb , restraint , II. verb (~d; bridling) Date: before 12th century transitive verb to put a ~ on, to restrain, check, or control with or as if with a ~ , intransitive verb to show hostility or resentment (as to an affront to one's pride or dignity) especially by drawing back the head and chin, see: restrain