- rein
- rein1 [reın] n[Date: 1200-1300; : Old French; Origin: rene, from Latin retinere; RETAIN]1.) [C usually plural]a long narrow band of leather that is fastened around a horse's head in order to control it→↑bridle2.) give (full/free) rein to sthto allow an emotion or feeling to be expressed freely▪ He gave free rein to his imagination.3.) give sb (a) free reinto give someone complete freedom to do a job in whatever way they choose4.) keep a tight rein on sb/sthto control something strictly▪ The finance director keeps a tight rein on spending.5.) take/hand over the reinsto take or give someone control over an organization or country▪ Owens will officially take over the reins in a few weeks.rein 2rein2 vrein in [rein sth<=>in] phr v1.) to start to control a situation more strictly▪ The government is reigning in public expenditure.2.) to make a horse go more slowly by pulling on the reins
Dictionary of contemporary English. 2013.