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 company then said JDE Peet’s boss Rafael Oliveira would lead the spinoff, but Oliveira left to take the reins at Dutch brewer Heineken.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 1, 2026
He had already handed over the reins as chief executive to hand-picked successor Greg Abel at the end of last year.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 18, 2026
Mervyn has now largely handed the reins of the farm over to one of his two sons, offering assistance when required.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
After 30 years on TV, Judge Judy is retiring and handing over the reins to her son, Judge Adam Levy, whose solo show ‘Adam’s Law’ premieres this month.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
Uppity hopped onto the wagon, gave the reins a slap, and galloped toward the Garner county Line.
From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney
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