reins
Americanplural noun
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the kidneys.
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the region of the kidneys, or the lower part of the back.
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(especially in Biblical use) the seat of the feelings or affections, formerly identified with the kidneys.
plural noun
Etymology
Origin of reins
before 1000; Middle English reines, reenes < Old French reins; compare Old English (once) rēnys; both < Latin rēnēs kidneys, loins (plural); cf. renal
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The packaged-foods giant is in the midst of an executive handover, with Chief Executive Officer Jeff Harmening expected to hand the reins to Dana McNabb in January.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 5, 2026
He now averages 54.36 as Test skipper, compared with 34.53 across 93 innings before taking the reins.
From BBC ● Oct. 20, 2026
Now you must let go of those reins and accept that it’s OK to live on a finite amount of money.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 13, 2026
Vaccarello's departure represents the biggest personnel change at a major Kering brand since former car company boss de Meo took the reins as chief executive of the debt-laden Paris-based company in September last year.
From Barron's ● Oct. 9, 2026
Dad seemed to be on the board still, clinging to the reins.
From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck
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