# bridle

/ˈbɹaɪdəɫ/ (US) · /bɹˈaɪdəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bridle
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a piece of equipment used to control a horse. It fits over the horse's head and has a bit in the mouth to help the rider steer.

For teachers: a headpiece for a horse, consisting of a bit and reins, used for controlling the animal. Often used metaphorically to describe a means of restraint or control.

## Examples

- The rider tightened the bridle before starting the race.
- After months of training, the young rider finally felt confident enough to ride without a bridle.
- The poet used the image of a silver bridle to symbolize the delicate balance between freedom and the necessary constraints of social order.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.