bridle
Main Entry: 1bri·dle
Pronunciation: 'brI-d&l
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English bridel, from Old English brIdel; akin to Old English bregdan to move quickly -- more at BRAID
Date: before 12th century
1 : the headgear with which a horse is governed and which carries a bit and reins
2 : a length of line or cable attached to two parts of something to spread the force of a pull; especially : rigging on a kite for attaching line
3 : CURB, RESTRAINT <set a bridle on his power>
Main Entry: 2bridle
Function: verb
Inflected Form(s): bri·dled; bri·dling /'brId-li[ng], 'brI-d&l-i[ng]/
Date: before 12th century
transitive senses
1 : to put a bridle on
2 : to restrain, check, or control with or as if with a bridle <bridle your tongue>
intransitive senses : to show hostility or resentment (as to an affront to one's pride or dignity) especially by drawing back the head and chin
(From Merriam-Webster)
I've always thought it was interesting that it is used as a verb; I imagine this usage just about had to have come from the use of *a* bridle.
We also have the expression "champing at the bit", taken straight from what horses do when they're eager to be off!
Of course, I suppose we could go into the champing/chomping, stamping/stomping discussion again...
