reins
Americanplural noun
-
the kidneys.
-
the region of the kidneys, or the lower part of the back.
-
(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); 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.
Ritchie directed the first two episodes and then handed off the reins, but his signature style is infused through the series.
From Los Angeles Times
When Kim Jong Un took the reins at the age of 27, making him the world's youngest leader, many had hoped he would open North Korea to the outside world.
From BBC
“Come on,” Grandpa said, offering me the reins.
From Literature
Favreau, who joined the BBL at the age of 17, danced his last Bolero in June 2024 in Tokyo, just before taking over the reins of the company, aged 47.
From Barron's
United have been transformed since former midfielder Carrick took the reins, but lacked rhythm as both sides played for the first time in 13 days.
From Barron's
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
