Rein (r?n), n. [F. r≖ne, fr. (assumed) LL. retina, fr. L. retinere to hold back. See Retain.]
1.
The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which the rider or driver governs the horse.
This knight laid hold upon his reyne.
Chaucer.
2.
Hence, an instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing; government; restraint.
"Let their eyes rove without
rein."
Milton.
To give rein, To give the rein to, to give license to; to leave withouut restrain. -- To take the reins, to take the guidance or government; to assume control.
© Webster 1913.
Rein, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Reined (r?nd); p. pr. & vb. n. Reining.]
1.
To govern or direct with the reins; as, to rein a horse one way or another.
He mounts and reins his horse.
Chapman.
2.
To restrain; to control; to check.
Being once chafed, he can not
Be reined again to temperance.
Shak.
To rein in ∨ rein up, to check the speed of, or cause to stop, by drawing the reins.
© Webster 1913.
Rein, v. i.
To be guided by reins.
[R.]
Shak.
© Webster 1913.