reins

[reynz]

plural noun

1. the kidneys.

2. the region of the kidneys, or the lower part of the back.

3. (especially in Biblical use) the seat of the feelings or affections, formerly identified with the kidneys.

reins

/ reɪnz /

plural noun

1. archaic,  the kidneys or loins

Word History and Origins

Origin of reins¹

before 1000; Middle English reines, reenes < Old French reins; compare Old English (once) rēnys; both < Latin rēnēs kidneys, loins (plural); renal

Word History and Origins

Origin of reins¹

C14: from Old French, from Latin rēnēs the kidneys

Example Sentences

When Reform UK took control of Lancashire County Council after winning May's local elections there was a swirl of interest about what the untested party would do with its hands on the reins of power.

From BBC

Instead of being handed the reins immediately, Mac started in the basement as a runner, putting security tags on the clothes before they’d go out to the floor.

From Los Angeles Times

NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Wednesday pulled back the reins as allegations swirled about the Clippers circumventing the salary cap by orchestrating an endorsement deal for star forward Kawhi Leonard.

From Los Angeles Times

Interim coach Terrence Whitehead, a former City player of the year for Crenshaw in 2001 and former Oregon Ducks tailback, took the reins of the offense and day-to-day operations of the program.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, she has clever ideas about how to keep Downton Abbey afloat and to push it into the modern age as she finally takes the reins from her father.

From Los Angeles Times