trammel

(trămˈəl)

1. A shackle used to teach a horse to amble.
2. Something that restricts activity, expression, or progress; a restraint.
3. A vertically set fishing net of three layers, consisting of a finely meshed net between two nets of coarse mesh.
4. An instrument for describing ellipses.
5. An instrument for gauging and adjusting parts of a machine; a tram.
6. An arrangement of links and a hook in a fireplace for raising and lowering a kettle.

1. To enmesh in or as if in a fishing net. See Synonyms at hamper¹.
2. To hinder the activity or free movement of.

Related Forms:

• tramˈmel·er noun