Definitions

bristle

[bris-uhl] / ˈbrɪs əl /

NOUN

short, prickly hair

Synonyms

STRONG

barb feeler fiber point prickle quill spine stubble thorn vibrissa whisker

VERB

become upset, excited

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bridle fume seethe

STRONG

boil flare rage rise ruffle spit swell

WEAK

be angry be infuriated be maddened blow up boil over flare up get one's dander up see red stand on end

Antonyms

STRONGEST

be happy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Russia's tone, and the attempt to steal the initiative, will make Ukrainians bristle.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

And if interviewers bristle at questions or dodge them, that could be a red flag.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

Many residents are thrilled by the promising tool, but others bristle at the idea of manipulating nature.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 22, 2026

"But no, the war is still ongoing," said the strong-armed baker, sporting a short bristle of beard.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

His face was oblong, with gray hair cut into a military bristle cut.

From "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman

Vocabulary lists containing bristle

Instead of "Said": Vexed Verbiage to Express Anger

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Of Mice and Men"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!