shackling

Variant of shackle

shackle definition

shackle (s̸hak′əl)

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

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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