noun

1. a metal fastening, usually one of a linked pair, for the wrist or ankle of a prisoner; fetter; manacle
2. anything that restrains freedom of expression or action the shackles of ignorance
3. any of several devices used in fastening or coupling

Etymology: ME schakel < OE sceacel, akin to MDu schakel, chain link < ? IE base *(s)kenk-, to gird, bind

transitive verb shackled -·led, shackling -·ling

1. to put shackles on; fetter
2. to fasten or connect with a shackle or shackles
3. to restrain in freedom of expression or action