n. That portion of the gear or harness of a horse (or other animal similarly used) which is fitted to its head, and by which it is governed and restrained, consisting usually of a head-stall, a bit, and reins, with other appendages, according to its particular form and uses. See cut under harness.n. An old instrument of punishment and restraint for scolds: a simpler form of the branks.n. Figuratively, a restraint; a curb; a check.n. The piece in the interior of a gun-lock which covers and holds in place the tumbler and sear, being itself held by the screws on which they turn. See cut under gun-lock.n. The piece on the end of a plow-beam to which the draftshackle is attached; the clevis. Also called muzzle or plow-head.n. In machinery, a link, flange, or other attachment for limiting the movement of any part of a machine.n. Nautical, a chain or rope span both ends of which are made fast, the strain or power being applied to the bight.n. In pathology, a small band attaching two parts to each other, as two serous surfaces after inflammation, or the sides of the urethra after urethritis, or stretched across a pustule or vesicle, modifying its shape.n. In anatomy, a frenum (which see).To put a bridle on: as, to brīdle a horse.To restrain, guide, or govern; check, curb, or control: as, to bridle the passions.Synonyms To repress, master, subdue.To hold the head up, in the manner of a spirited horse under a strong rein, especially as an expression of pride, scorn, or resentment; assume a lofty manner so as to assert one's dignity or express indignation; toss the head; strut: generally with up.n. An arrangement by which a large kite, used in aërial observations, is attached to the steel wire by which it is held.n. A device for controlling the speed of logs on a skid-road.n. In certain cephalopods, one of the bands which attach the funnel to the head.n. In pianoforte-making. Same as bridle-tape.To connect; join as by a bridle: as draft-rollers (in cotton-manufacturing) that are yoked together.