bridling — showing anger or indignation; restraining or controlling something
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: showing anger or indignation; restraining or controlling something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbraɪdəlɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- The politician was bridling at the reporter's persistent questions
- She kept bridling her emotions during the heated debate
- The CEO was visibly bridling when asked about the company's recent failures
bridling
VERB[/ˈbraɪdəlɪŋ/]
showing anger or indignation; restraining or controlling something
a businesswoman grips the edge of the conference table with white knuckles while forcing a tight smile. Her jaw is clenched and her eyes flash with barely contained fury as a colleague takes credit for her work. She takes a deep breath and straightens her posture, visibly pulling herself back from an outburst. Her fists slowly unclench as she restrains her impulse to interrupt angrily. Other meeting participants look uncomfortable, sensing the tension in the room. someone bridling their anger and controlling their emotional response despite intense provocation
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old English 'bridel' meaning a horse's harness used for control. The verb developed from the physical action of a horse pulling back against the bridle when resisting control, which came to metaphorically mean 'to show anger or resentment.'
Breakdown
bridle (horse's harness/to control) + -ing (present participle suffix, indicating ongoing action)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The politician was bridling at the reporter's persistent questions”
“She kept bridling her emotions during the heated debate”
“The CEO was visibly bridling when asked about the company's recent failures”
“My cat started bridling when I suggested it was time for a bath”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.