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Added 9 October 2026

rein

/ɹeɪn/ noun

In Latin: lōrum, retina Wiktionary

noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about rein at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

A strap or rope attached to a bridle or bit, used to control a horse, other animal or young child.
An instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing.
The government is attempting to keep a rein on rising prices.

verb

To direct or stop a horse by using reins.
To restrain; to control; to check.
To obey directions given with the reins.

noun

A kidney.
The inward impulses; the affections and passions, formerly supposed to be located in the area of the kidneys.

Origin

From Middle English rein, reyne, from Anglo-Norman reyne, resne, from Early Medieval Latin retina, ultimately from Classical Latin retineō (“hold back”), from re- + teneō (“keep, hold”). Compare modern French rêne. Displaced native Old English brīdel (“bridle, rein”), Old English wealdleþer, ġewealdleþer (“rein, bridle”, literally “control strap”), Old English sāl (“cord, rein”), Old English tiġel (“rein”), and Old English lāttēh, lāttēh (“leash, rein”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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