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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


bristle

noun, verb

Definition: (n.) stiff, short hair; (v.) 1. to make a person or animal's hair stand on end, usually because of fear, anger, or displeasure; 2. to react in anger or offense; 3. to be full of something

Synonyms: (v.) fume, abound, teem

Antonyms: (v.) smooth

Tips: When bristle is used to describe an angry reaction or a large amount of something, it is usually used in the context, "to bristle with something." As a noun, it can refer to a course hair that is human, animal, or synthetic.

Usage Examples:

She bristled with rage at the accusation that she had taken an unauthorized loan from the company. (fumed)

At the sight of the dog, the cat's fur began to bristle, and he let out a low hiss. (stand up)

The little boy bristled with shame when he was caught stealing a pack of gum. (teemed)

The graphic designer bristled with anger when, once again, the pompous creative director took credit for her idea. (fumed, teemed)


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