Definition

1. Noun:
   • Metal shackles; for hands or legs: A plural noun referring to a set of connected metal rings or links used to restrain a person, typically by binding the wrists or ankles. It implies a state of physical confinement or imprisonment.

Usage

• The word "chains" is used to describe physical restraints. It is often found in historical, legal, or metaphorical contexts discussing captivity, oppression, or severe restriction.
• It is typically used with verbs like "wear," "break," "be in," "be freed from," or "shackle with."

Examples

• The prisoners were led away in chains.
• He shook the heavy chains that bound his feet.
• The declaration called for people to throw off their chains of tyranny.

Advanced Usage

• "In chains": Physically restrained or imprisoned.
  • The captured soldiers were held in chains for months.
• "The chains of [something]": A metaphor for anything that binds or restricts someone, such as tradition, debt, or fear.
  • She felt bound by the chains of her family's expectations.

Variants and Related Words

• Chain (noun, singular): A single connected series of metal links.
  • A chain around his neck held a small key.
• Chain (verb): To fasten or secure with a chain.
  • They had to chain the gate shut.
• Shackles (noun): A synonym, often specifically for restraints on the wrists or ankles.
• Fetters (noun): A literary synonym for chains or shackles.

Synonyms

• Shackles
• Fetters
• Bonds
• Irons
• Manacles

Related Phrases

• "Break the chains": To free oneself from confinement or oppression.
  • The revolution was about breaking the chains of the old regime.
• "Chain gang": A group of prisoners chained together to perform labor.
  • The historical photo showed a chain gang working on the road.

Noun

1. metal shackles; for hands or legs