Word
reins
US/ˈɹeɪnz/
UK/ɹˈeɪnz/
Definition
n. the long leather straps used to control a horse. You pull on them to tell the animal which way to go or when to stop.
n. long, narrow straps attached to a bit and held by the rider or driver, used to control a horse or other animal. Frequently used in the plural form; often appears in metaphorical expressions regarding control or leadership.
Examples
“She pulled the reins to stop the horse.”
“The rider gripped the leather reins tightly as the horse began to gallop across the open field.”
“After the CEO retired, the young executive finally took the reins of the company, steering the organization toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.”
Examples
simple
“She pulled the reins to stop the horse.”
contextual
“The rider gripped the leather reins tightly as the horse began to gallop across the open field.”
complex
“After the CEO retired, the young executive finally took the reins of the company, steering the organization toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.”
Usage
Usually used in the plural ('reins') when referring to the physical straps or the concept of control.
Real-World Examples
“It very quickly becomes clear who is really in charge here, with the cops left looking useless as Tobias takes the reins.” “Having won 12 of his 17 matches in charge and being handed the reins on a permanent basis, most agree Carrick has earned the right to lead United for a full campaign.” Etymology
See rein
From Old French reins, see also rein in French.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
hold the reins — To be in charge, to be in control, as of a business, political organization, or other group.
take the reins — Synonym of take control.