Bristle: meaning, definitions and examples

With a different meaning, it can refer to someone reacting angrily or defensively.

• She bristled at the suggestion that she was wrong
• He bristled with anger when he heard the news

A general term for a thread or filament, natural or synthetic, often used in the context of textiles, diet, and materials. Less specific than bristle.

• The fabric is made of natural fibers
• Whole grains are an excellent source of dietary fiber

A brush with stiff bristles used for scrubbing or grooming, applicable in cleaning or personal care.

• She used a bristle brush to clean the tiles
• Use a bristle brush to groom your pet's fur properly

Describes a type of broom with stiff, coarse bristles, used for heavy-duty sweeping, often outdoors.

• The bristle broom is perfect for sweeping the garage floor
• Use a bristle broom to clean the debris off the sidewalk

Used to describe short, stiff hairs found on animals or brushes. It can also mean reacting angrily or defensively.

• The dog bristled when it saw the stranger.
• He felt his neck bristle in anger.

Common term for the strands of material that grow on the skin of humans or animals.

• She has beautiful long hair.
• The cat's soft hair was nice to touch.

Can refer to a series of vertebrae forming the backbone, or the sharp, needle-like projections on some plants or animals.

• She felt a pain in her spine.
• The cactus had long spines on it.

Usually refers to the stiff, sharp hollow spine of a porcupine or hedgehog, or can refer to an old-fashioned type of pen.

• The porcupine's quills were very sharp.
• He dipped the quill in ink and began to write.

Used when someone suddenly feels angry or defensive, often visibly reacting to something that has been said or done.

• She bristled at the criticism of her work
• His tone made her bristle with annoyance

Implies that someone is responding with an inclination to defend themselves, sometimes even if no direct attack is intended.

• He reacted defensively when asked about his performance
• She tends to react defensively to any form of criticism

A general term for any behavior that openly displays feelings of anger or frustration.

• He showed anger by raising his voice
• Her body language showed anger despite her calm words

Describes a state where someone becomes nervous, upset, or excited, often causing them to act in a restless or uneasy manner.

• He became agitated when he couldn't find his keys
• She started to become agitated during the heated argument