give rein to (someone or something)

give rein to (someone or something)

To allow unchecked or unconstrained freedom to something or someone; to completely or freely indulge something or someone. George would make a great businessman if he didn't give rein to his emotions like that. It's a sure sign that this company is failing if they're willing to give rein to the interns like this. You have a nasty habit of giving rein to your drinking.

See also: give, rein, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

give rein to

see under free hand.

See also: give, rein, to

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.