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

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

Now, it's China that holds the reins in this relationship.

From BBC

It had few powers with which to set policy, especially with Franklin Roosevelt taking the reins of economic policy in his own hands.

From Los Angeles Times

She previously served in Congress and the statehouse before becoming one of the five “little queens” holding the reins of the county kingdom.

From Los Angeles Times