bridle up
C1 formal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
to get stiff and offended
Literal meaning: to put up a bridle, as on a horse
Meanings
1 C1
idiomatic
formal
to show anger or offense suddenly, especially by stiffening or reacting proudly
"She bridled up at the suggestion that she needed help."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
This is a literary or old-fashioned expression, often used in narrative writing rather than everyday conversation.
Commonly used with
at the remark with indignation visibly slightly
Forms
Base
bridle up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bridles up
he/she/it
Past simple
bridled up
yesterday
Past participle
bridled up
have + pp
-ing form
bridling up
continuous
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Synonyms
take offense bristle stiffen with anger react indignantly
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