rein
/reɪn; ren/ n
1
(a) [C often pl 常作复数]
long narrow strap fastened to the bit of a bridle and used to guide and control a horse 缰绳
ride on a short/long rein, ie use more/less control 骑马时拉紧[放松]缰绳.
(b) reins [pl]
similar device for restraining a small child 成人牵著幼儿走路用的保护带.
2 reins [pl] (fml 文) means of control 控制手段
hold, take up, assume, etc the reins of government, ie (begin to) govern 掌握、 取得、 执掌...政权.
3 (idm 习语) give, etc free rein to sb/sth => free1. keep a tight rein on sb/sth => tight. rein, v (phr v) rein sth in slow down or stop (a horse) by pulling back the reins （用缰绳）勒住（马）（使之放慢或止住脚步）.