First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1shackle
noun shack·le \ˈsha-kəl\
: one of two rings or bands that are placed around a person's wrists or ankles and that are connected by a chain
shackles : something that prevents people from acting freely
Full Definition of SHACKLE
1
: something (as a manacle or fetter) that confines the legs or arms
2
: something that checks or prevents free action as if by fetters —usually used in plural
3
: a usually U-shaped fastening device secured by a bolt or pin through holes in the end of the two arms
4
: a length of cable or anchor chain of usually 15 fathoms
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Origin of SHACKLE
Middle English schakel, from Old English sceacul; akin to Old Norse skǫkull pole of a cart
Related to SHACKLE
2shackle
transitive verb
: to put shackles on (someone or something)
shack·ledshack·ling \-k(ə-)liŋ\
Full Definition of SHACKLE
2
: to deprive of freedom especially of action by means of restrictions or handicaps : impede
— shack·ler \-k(ə-)lər\ noun
First Known Use of SHACKLE
15th century
Related to SHACKLE
Synonym Discussion of SHACKLE
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>.
SHACKLES Defined for Kids
1shackle
noun shack·le \ˈsha-kəl\
Definition of SHACKLE for Kids
1
: a ring or band that prevents free use of the legs or arms
2
: something that prevents free action <The country was freed from the shackles of oppression.>
2shackle
verb
shack·ledshack·ling
Definition of SHACKLE for Kids
1
: to bind or fasten with a ring or band placed on the legs or arms
2
: to prevent free action
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