Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Physically restrained by chains or shackles around the ankles: Describes a state of being bound, typically with fetters (a type of shackle), restricting movement.
   • Figuratively restricted or impeded: Describes a state of being held back, constrained, or limited in action, freedom, or progress.

Usage Examples

• Adjective (Literal):
  • The prisoner was led away, his ankles fettered.
  • Archaeologists discovered the fettered remains in the ancient dungeon.
• Adjective (Figurative):
  • The company's growth was fettered by outdated regulations.
  • She felt fettered by the expectations of her traditional family.

Advanced Usage

• "to be fettered to": to be tied or bound to something, often negatively.
  • He was fettered to a job he despised because of his financial obligations.
• "fettered mind": a mind that is not free to think creatively or independently.
  • The strict curriculum left the students with fettered minds, unable to question or innovate.

Variants and Related Words

• Fetter (verb): To restrain with chains or shackles; to restrict or impede.
  • The new law will fetter the agency's ability to respond quickly.
• Fetter (noun): A chain or shackle placed on the ankles; something that restricts freedom.
  • The fetters were heavy and rusted.
  • Fear of failure can be a powerful fetter.
• Unfettered (adjective): Not confined or restricted; free.
  • The artist worked with unfettered creativity.

Synonyms

• Shackled: Chained or restrained.
• Manacled: Handcuffed or shackled.
• Restrained: Held back or kept under control.
• Encumbered: Burdened or impeded.
• Hampered: Hindered or obstructed.

Related Phrases

• In fetters: Literally wearing shackles; in a state of bondage.
  • The captives were held in fetters for months.
• Cast off one's fetters: To free oneself from restraints.
  • The revolution was about casting off the fetters of tyranny.

Adjective

1. bound by chains fastened around the ankles