rein Definition
- 1a long, narrow strap attached at one end to a horse's bit, typically used in pairs to guide or check a horse while riding or driving
- 2control or guidance, especially when restraining freedom of action
Using rein: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "rein" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She pulled on the reins to stop the horse.
Example
The company needs to keep a tight rein on expenses.
Example
Parents should exercise some rein over their children's activities.
Example
He gave his imagination free rein and wrote a fantastic story.
rein Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using rein
Example
The company had to rein in its spending after it went bankrupt.
Example
The new boss allowed her employees to work on a long rein, giving them more autonomy than before.
Example
The coach had to shorten the reins on his players after they started making too many mistakes.
Phrases with rein
Example
The new manager was given free rein to make changes in the department.
Example
After the CEO resigned, the COO took up the reins of the company.
Example
The government needs to keep a tight rein on inflation.
Origins of rein
from Old English 'rēn', meaning 'strap or thong for guiding a horse'
Summary: rein in Brief
The term 'rein' [reɪn] refers to a long, narrow strap used to guide or check a horse while riding or driving, or control or guidance in general. It can be used in phrases like 'give someone free rein,' meaning to allow complete freedom of action, or idioms like 'rein in,' meaning to control or limit something that is becoming difficult to manage.