UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: to control, to exercise self-control

Semantic entry: 88.85

Semantic domains: Moral and Ethical Qualities and Related Behavior

Subdomains: Self-Control, Lack of Self-Control

Definition: (a figurative extension of meaning of χαλιναγωγέω ‘to control with bit or bridle,’ not occurring in the NT) to exercise close control over some function

Notes: In some languages the expression μὴ χαλιναγωγῶν γλῶσσαν αὐτοῦ in RV JAM 1:26 · LV JAM 1:26 · Read together JAM 1:26 may be rendered as ‘one who does not tell his tongue what to say’ or ‘one who cannot tie his tongue down’ or ‘one who cannot stop his talking.’