bristle
|bris/tle|
B2
/ˈbrɪsəl/
without stiff hairs
Etymology
Etymology Information
'bristle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'byrst,' where 'byrst' meant 'bristle or hair.'
Historical Evolution
'byrst' transformed into the Middle English word 'bristel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bristle.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a stiff hair,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to stand upright away from the skin, especially in anger or fear.
The cat's fur bristled when it saw the dog.
Synonyms
Verb 2
to react angrily or defensively.
He bristled at the suggestion that he was wrong.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/04/27 13:12