Dictionary
1rein
noun \ˈrān\
: a strap that is fastened to a device (called a bridle) placed on the head of an animal (such as a horse) and that is used to guide and control the animal
: the ability to limit or control something
: the power to guide or control someone or something
Full Definition of REIN
1
: a strap fastened to a bit by which a rider or driver controls an animal —usually used in plural
2
a : a restraining influence : check <kept a tight rein on the proceedings> b : controlling or guiding power —usually used in plural <the reins of government>
3
: opportunity for unhampered activity or use <gave full rein to her imagination>
See rein defined for English-language learners
See rein defined for kids
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Illustration of REIN
Origin of REIN
Middle English reine, from Anglo-French resne, reine, from Vulgar Latin *retina, from Latin retinēre to restrain — more at retain
First Known Use: 14th century
Related to REIN
- Synonyms
- chair, driver's seat, headship, helm, rein(s)
- Antonyms
- impotence, impotency, powerlessness
Rhymes with REIN
ain, Aisne, ane, Bain, bane, blain, brain, cane, chain, crane, deign, drain, fain, fane, feign, gain, grain, Kane, lane, Lane, main, mane, pain, Paine, pane, plain, plane, quean, rain, reign, sain, sane, seine, Seine, skein, Spain, sprain, stain, strain, swain, thane, thegn, train, twain, Twain, vain, vane, vein, wain, wane, Wayne
2rein
verb
Definition of REIN
transitive verb
1
: to control or direct with or as if with reins
2
: to check or stop by or as if by a pull at the reins <reined in her horse> <couldn't rein his impatience>
intransitive verb
1
archaic : to submit to the use of reins
2
: to stop or slow up one's horse or oneself by or as if by pulling the reins
See rein defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of REIN
15th century
REIN[1] Defined for Kids
1rein
noun \ˈrān\
Definition of REIN for Kids
1
: a line or strap that is attached at either end of the bit of a bridle and is used to control an animal —usually used in pl.
2
: an influence that slows, limits, or holds back <The parents kept their child under a tight rein.>
3
: controlling or guiding power <the reins of government>
2rein
verb
reinedrein·ing
Definition of REIN for Kids
: to check, control, or stop by or as if by reins <He reined in his horse.> <Rein in your anger.>
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