—n.
1 a short stiff hair, esp. one of those on an animal's back.
2 this, or a man-made substitute, used in clumps to make a brush.
—v.
1 a intr. (of the hair) stand upright, esp. in anger or pride. b tr. make (the hair) do this.
2 intr. show irritation or defensiveness.
3 intr. (usu. foll. by with) be covered or abundant (in).
Etymology: ME bristel, brestel f. OE byrst
Useful english dictionary. 2012.