What is "bearing rein"

Checkrein \Check"rein`\, n.

1. A short rein looped over the check hook to prevent a horse from lowering his head; -- called also a bearing rein.

2. A branch rein connecting the driving rein of one horse of a span or pair with the bit of the other horse.

n. A checkrein.

n. a rein designed to keep the horse's head in the desired position [syn: checkrein]