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shackle
The definition of a shackle is a literal or figurative restraint that keeps you in place or prevents you from doing what you want.
(noun)- The chains that bind a prisoner's hands to his ankles are an example of a shackle.
- If you believe you can't achieve your dreams, this belief is an example of a shackle.
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See shackle in Webster's New World College Dictionary
noun
- a metal fastening, usually one of a linked pair, for the wrist or ankle of a prisoner; fetter; manacle
- anything that restrains freedom of expression or action: the shackles of ignorance
- any of several devices used in fastening or coupling
Origin: ME schakel < OE sceacel, akin to MDu schakel, chain link < ? IE base *(s)kenk-, to gird, bind
Related Forms:
- shackler noun
See shackle in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
- A metal fastening, usually one of a pair, for encircling and confining the ankle or wrist of a prisoner or captive; a fetter or manacle.
- A hobble for an animal.
- Any of several devices, such as a clevis, used to fasten or couple.
- A restraint or check to action or progress. Often used in the plural: economic shackles that precluded further investment.
- To confine with shackles; fetter.
- To fasten or connect with a shackle.
- To restrict, confine, or hamper. See Synonyms at hamper1.
Origin:
Origin: Middle English schackel
Origin: , from Old English sceacel, fetter
.Related Forms:
- shackˈler noun
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shackle
left to right: spin and anchor shackles
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