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."
inseparable
bridle up
C1 formal inseparable intransitive
to react with visible annoyance, pride, or offense
In plain English
to get stiff and offended
What does "bridle up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to put up a bridle, as on a horse
Actually means
to get stiff and offended
Usage tip
This is a literary or old-fashioned expression, often used in narrative writing rather than everyday conversation.
Words that pair with "bridle up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
at the remark with indignation visibly slightly
How to conjugate "bridle up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "bridle up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "bridle up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "bridle up"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
bristle react indignantly stiffen with anger take offense
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