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What is "to take the reins"

The Collaborative International Dictionary
To take the reins

Rein \Rein\ (r?n), n. [F. r[^e]ne, fr. (assumed) LL. retina, fr. L. retinere to hold back. See Retain.]

  1. The strap of a bridle, fastened to the curb or snaffle on each side, by which the rider or driver governs the horse.

    This knight laid hold upon his reyne.
    --Chaucer.

  2. Hence, an instrument or means of curbing, restraining, or governing; government; restraint. ``Let their eyes rove without rein.''
    --Milton.

    To give rein, To give the rein to, to give license to; to leave withouut restrain.

    To take the reins, to take the guidance or government; to assume control.

Usage examples of "to take the reins".

Children appeared to take the reins of the three horses and the beasts were led away.

The captain complained about his shoulder and tried to take the reins and then he said he needed a doctor and then he said he needed to urinate.

Everyone cheered as a Haloga ran out to take the reins of Balsamon's mule and lead him back to safety within the Videssian army.

Yolande smoothed a hand down the neck of her mount as stablehands came up to take the reins.

There were just enough of them to take the reins of all the pack animals.

To Kate's relief, she was relieved of his company for the better part of the afternoon, as he decided to take the reins.

A group of retainers in blue livery surged forward to take the reins and fit the gryphon’.