Definitions

1. verb

to rise or stand upright in a bristling or quivering mass, as a hair or a beard, especially in anger or excitement.

“The old man’s bristled at the unfair accusation.”

2. noun

a stiff or sharp hair or hair-like growth, especially on an animal, such as a pig or a hedgehog.

“The porcupine’s bristles were a defense mechanism against predators.”

3. noun

a small, stiff, or sharp projection, such as on a brush or a scrubbing tool.

“The scrub brush had stiff bristles that scraped against the wall.”

4. verb

to have or show stiff or sharp hairs or projections, especially in anger or excitement.

“The angry man bristled at the sight of his rival.”