bridle
/ˈbɹaɪdəl/
Group 16Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To show one's resentment or anger, especially by throwing up one's head; to bring under control GRE
Example in Context
The senator bridled at the suggestion that her vote had been influenced by campaign contributions from the industry.
Synonyms
restraincurbhold back
Etymology
Originally referred to a restraining strap for horses, now signifies showing anger or control.
- brid- (Old English) — to restrain
- le (Old English) — to control
Memory Aid
👰Sounds like “bride'll”
Imagine a BRIDE, fuming and throwing her head back, saying 'I will NOT bridle my RESENTMENT about this wedding!'
Visual Association
😠A horse tossing its head up in defiance, showing its frustration at being controlled.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “bridle” mean on the GRE?
bridle (verb) means “To show one's resentment or anger, especially by throwing up one's head; to bring under control”. The senator bridled at the suggestion that her vote had been influenced by campaign contributions from the industry.
How to remember “bridle” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “bridle” sounds like “bride'll”. Imagine a BRIDE, fuming and throwing her head back, saying 'I will NOT bridle my RESENTMENT about this wedding!'
What are synonyms for “bridle”?
Common synonyms: restrain, curb, hold back.