bristled

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.

Carrick bristled when the term 'on the beach' was used in relation to a team that is virtually guaranteed to finish third regardless of what happens in their final three matches.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

Others bristled at the Mayor’s comparison of the freeway and public transit.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

For larger, firmer areas like her back, she preferred the bristled side.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

Kevin Durant this week bristled at constant complaints at the lack of All-Star Game efforts by veteran US stars, urging a reporter to "ask the Europeans and the World Team if they want to compete."

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

I bristled, but it also broke my heart that Ma had such a limited view, that she thought getting married was the only solution.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu