Dictionary

1fetter

noun fet·ter \ˈfe-tər\

Definition of FETTER

1
:  a chain or shackle for the feet
2
:  something that confines :  restraint
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Origin of FETTER

Middle English feter, from Old English; akin to Old English fōt foot
First Known Use: before 12th century

2fetter

verb

: to prevent (someone or something) from moving or acting freely

: to put chains around someone's feet to prevent motion

Full Definition of FETTER

transitive verb
1
:  to put fetters on :  shackle
2
:  to restrain from motion, action, or progress

First Known Use of FETTER

before 12th century

Synonym Discussion of FETTER

hamper, trammel, clog, fetter, shackle, manacle mean to hinder or impede in moving, progressing, or acting. hamper may imply the effect of any impeding or restraining influence <hampered the investigation by refusing to cooperate>. trammel suggests entangling by or confining within a net <rules that trammel the artist's creativity>. clog usually implies a slowing by something extraneous or encumbering <a court system clogged by frivolous suits>. fetter suggests a restraining so severe that freedom to move or progress is almost lost <a nation fettered by an antiquated class system>. shackle and manacle are stronger than fetter and suggest total loss of freedom <a mind shackled by stubborn prejudice> <a people manacled by tyranny>.

Rhymes with FETTER

FETTERED Defined for Kids

1fetter

noun fet·ter \ˈfe-tər\

Definition of FETTER for Kids

1
:  a chain for the feet
2
:  something that holds back :  restraint

2fetter

verb
fet·teredfet·ter·ing

Definition of FETTER for Kids

1
:  to chain the feet of
2
:  to keep from moving or acting freely <He was fettered by many responsibilities.>

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