shackle

¹shack·le

noun \ˈsha-kəl\

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

Examples of SHACKLE

1. <placed shackles on the legs of the prisoners>
2. <the shackles of illiteracy can be just as confining as leg irons>

Origin of SHACKLE

Middle English schakel, from Old English sceacul; akin to Old Norse skǫkull pole of a cart

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to SHACKLE

Synonyms: band, bind, bracelet, chain, cuff(s), fetter, handcuff(s), irons, ligature, manacle(s), bond

Related Words: captivity, confinement, constraint, curb, enchainment, enslavement, hindrance, immurement, imprisonment, incarceration, restraint, restriction; entanglement, net, trammel, trap; collar, straitjacket (also straightjacket); fastener, hobble, hold, hold-down, holding, tie

Near Antonyms: catalyst, goad, impetus, incentive, spur, stimulant, stimulus; advantage, break, edge; aid, assistance, benefit, boost, handmaiden (also handmaid), help

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Rhymes with SHACKLE

cackle, crackle, grackle, hackle, macle, rackle, spackle, tackle