The word “bristled” is primarily a verb that refers to reacting with anger, irritation, or defensiveness, often in response to a provocation. It can also describe something that is stiff or stands on end, like hair or fur when an animal feels threatened or a person experiences fear or anger. The term can be used literally (describing physical bristles or stiff hairs) or figuratively (describing emotional or defensive reactions).
Example Sentences
- The cat bristled when it saw the unfamiliar dog enter the room.
- She bristled at the criticism, feeling it was completely unjustified.
- His tone was so rude that it made me bristle with irritation.
- The soldier’s hair bristled as he heard a sudden noise in the dark.
- He bristled at the suggestion that he was incompetent.
- The manager bristled when the employees questioned his authority.
- The dog’s fur bristled in warning as the stranger approached the house.
- She bristled with indignation when someone mocked her work.
- His shoulders bristled at the sarcastic remark, but he chose to remain silent.
- The bushes bristled with thorns, making it difficult to pass through.
Synonyms
For emotional reaction (figurative):
- React angrily
- Bridle
- Fume
- Flare up
- Take offense
- Seethe
- Scowl
- Stiffen
- Show irritation
For physical description (literal):
- Stiffen
- Stand on end
- Spike up
- Rise
Antonyms
For emotional reaction:
- Relax
- Calm down
- Accept
- Ignore
- Tolerate
- Yield
For physical description:
- Soften
- Flatten
- Relax
Related Words
- Irritate
- Anger
- Indignation
- Resentment
- Defensive
- Agitation
- Prickle
- Spike
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Bridle at: To react angrily or defensively to something.
- Flare up: To become suddenly angry or irritated.
- Rise to the occasion: To respond positively when challenged, opposite of “bristling” defensively.
- Snap at: To respond sharply and angrily.
Idiomatic Expressions
- Ruffle someone’s feathers: To irritate or upset someone, causing a bristling reaction.
- Get one’s hackles up: To become defensive or angry.
- Rub someone the wrong way: To annoy or provoke someone, causing them to bristle.
- On the defensive: Ready to defend oneself from criticism or attacks.
- Like a cat on a hot tin roof: To be tense, irritable, or easily triggered, much like someone who bristles.
The word “bristled” captures both a literal stiffening reaction, like fur standing on end, and a figurative response to anger, irritation, or provocation. Its synonyms, antonyms, and related expressions offer vivid ways to describe someone’s defensive or agitated behavior, making it versatile for both physical and emotional contexts.
