rein Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun one of a pair of long straps (usually connected to the bit or the headpiece) used to control a horse
  2. noun any means of control
    • he took up the reins of government
  3. verb control and direct with or as if by reins
    rein in; draw rein; harness.
    • rein a horse
  4. verb stop or slow up one's horse or oneself by or as if by pulling the reins
    rein in.
    • They reined in in front of the post office
  5. verb stop or check by or as if by a pull at the reins
    rein in.
    • He reined in his horses in front of the post office
  6. verb keep in check
    harness; rule.
    • rule one's temper

WordNet

Rein noun
Etymology
F. r≖ne, fr. (assumed) LL. retina, fr. L. retinere to hold back. See Retain.
Definitions
  1. The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which the rider or driver governs the horse.
    This knight laid hold upon his reyne. Chaucer.
  2. Hence, an instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing; government; restraint. "Let their eyes rove without rein." Milton.
Rein transitive verb
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Reined present participle & verbal noun Reining
Definitions
  1. To govern or direct with the reins; as, to rein a horse one way or another.
    He mounts and reins his horse. Chapman.
  2. To restrain; to control; to check.
    Being once chafed, he can not Be reined again to temperance. Shak.
Rein intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To be guided by reins. R. Shak.

Webster 1913