bridle

noun

1. The headgear with which a horse is directed and which carries a bit and reins.

   “[…] the horseman, who is the user of bridles and knows their use”

2. (figuratively)A restraint; a curb; a check.

   “Let wisdom put a bridle on them before they are grown head-strong and unruly”

3. A length of line or cable attached to two parts of something to spread the force of a pull, as the rigging on a kite for attaching line.
4. A mooring hawser.
5. A piece in the interior of a gunlock which holds in place the tumbler, sear, etc.
6. A gesture expressing pride or vanity.

verb

1. (transitive)To put a bridle on.

   “He bridled her mouth with a silkweed twist.”

2. (transitive)To check, restrain, or control with, or as if with, a bridle; as in bridle your tongue.

   “Savoy and Nice, the keys of Italy, and the citadel in her hands to bridle Switzerland, are in that consolidation.”

3. (intransitive)To show hostility or resentment.

   “Immigrant-rights and religious organizations bridled at the plan to favor highly skilled workers over relatives. (Houston Chronicle, 6/8/2007)”

4. (intransitive)To hold up one's head proudly or affectedly.