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

Jaime Moore, currently a deputy chief, will take the reins after a lengthy, nationwide search during which the mayor interviewed fire chiefs of other major cities.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"The world is changing, and Nestle needs to change faster," chief executive Philipp Navratil, who took the reins of the multinational in early September, said in a statement.

Read more on Barron's

Jonathan Anderson, who was previously at LVMH’s Loewe, took the creative reins of Dior.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

No straight minded person would entertain taking the reins.

Read more on BBC

Hollub expressed confidence that Berkshire will stay in the stock despite Buffett handing over the reins of the company to Abel when he steps down at year-end.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal