reins

American  

[reynz] / reɪnz /

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.

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reins British  

/ reɪnz /

plural noun

1. archaic the kidneys or loins

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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

Asking for help and paying for advice are not the same as handing over the reins to somebody else.

From MarketWatch

It is a dilemma facing many central banks: Surging oil prices threaten economic growth and corporate earnings, backing the case for looser policy, while also posing inflationary risk, which argues for keeping the reins tight.

From The Wall Street Journal

That new era also included a goodbye to Bob Iger, who handed over the reins Wednesday and now moves into a senior advisory role for the rest of the year before his planned retirement.

From Los Angeles Times

Her chin was set, and she gripped the reins herself, so she hadn’t brought me along to drive.

From Literature

The decision marks the latest effort by de Meo, who took the reins as CEO in September, to turn around the company after several quarters of disappointing sales for its flagship brand Gucci.

From The Wall Street Journal