Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

bristling

adjective

ˈbrɪslɪŋ

Definition

A term used to describe something that is stiff, upright, and often refers to hair, fur, or a surface that appears to be standing on end.

Examples

The cat’s bristling fur indicated that it felt threatened.
His bristling attitude made it clear that he was not in the mood for conversation.
As she heard the noise behind her, she felt her hair bristling in alarm.

Meaning

Bristling means to stand stiffly upright, often due to a strong emotional response like anger or fear. It can also refer to a surface covered with short, stiff hairs or projections.