# reins

/ˈɹeɪnz/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪnz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reins
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

- Usually used in the plural ('reins') when referring to the physical straps or the concept of control.

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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.