noun / verb
shackle
SHAK-uhl/ʃˈækʌl/
A metal fastening link capable of restricting movement.
A steel shackle around her wrist keeps her from stepping forward.
Etymology
The Old English noun meant a fetter, such as one binding a prisoner's wrist or ankle. The verb extended physical binding into a figurative image of restrictions that hold someone back or limit freedom.
In context
you shackle yourself to them and then you say we're not running away no matter what happens
More examples
- A metal shackle connects the chain to the anchor.
- The guards shackle the prisoner's ankles before moving him.
- She unlocks the shackles and frees his wrists.
Forms
shackle · shackles · shackled · shackling
unshackle verb — To free someone or something from shackles.