Bristle
/ˈbrɪs.əl/noun
To stand upright away from the skin, often in response to fear or agitation.
Did you know?In ancient times, animals would bristle their fur to appear more intimidating, a primal instinct still echoed in our language today.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*bristlō
“A stiff hair or bristle.”
Old English
OE
bryslian
“To stand on end, as hair does.”
Middle English
ME
bristlen
“To stand erect; to rise or stiffen.”
Modern English
English
bristle
“To respond with a protective or defensive stance, especially in animals.”