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

Networks with multiyear deals in hand have bristled at the move.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

She bristled at his refusal to plan for the time when he was no longer in charge.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

I would ordinarily have bristled at his comment, but Deoch was nothing but good natured.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss