Dictionary.net

control and direct with or as if by reins; as of a horse

one of a pair of long straps (usually connected to the bit or the headpiece) used to control a horse

any means of control; "he took up the reins of government"

stop or slow up one's horse or oneself by or as if by pulling the reins; "They reined in in front of the post office"

one of a pair of long straps (usually connected to the bit or the headpiece) used to control a horse

any means of control; "he took up the reins of government"

stop or slow up one's horse or oneself by or as if by pulling the reins; "They reined in in front of the post office"

The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which the rider or driver governs the horse.

Hence, an instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing; government; restraint.

To govern or direct with the reins; as, to rein a horse one way or another.

To restrain; to control; to check.

To be guided by reins.

The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which the rider or driver governs the horse.

Hence, an instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing; government; restraint.

To govern or direct with the reins; as, to rein a horse one way or another.

To restrain; to control; to check.

To be guided by reins.

A leather strap fastened to each side of the bit of a horse or other animal as a means of guiding and controlling it; any means of restraint or control; as, the reins of government.

To hold in, direct, or cause to stop by means of reins; control.

The strap of a bridle: an instrument for curbing or governing: government.

To govern with the rein or bridle: to restrain or control.

The strap of a bridle; restraint.

To govern with a rein; restrain.

To manage with the rein; check; restrain.

A strap attached to the bit for controlling a horse.

n. [Latin] The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which to restrain and govern the horse, &c.; —a leading string;—hence, an instrument of restraining or governing.