shackle
pronunciation
How to pronounce shackle in British English:
UK [ˈʃækl]
How to pronounce shackle in American English:
US [ˈʃækl]
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- Noun:
- a restraint that confines or restricts freedom (especially something used to tie down or restrain a prisoner)
- a U-shaped bar; the open end can be passed through chain links and closed with a bar
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- Verb:
- bind the arms of
- restrain with fetters
Word Origin
- shackle (n.)
- Old English sceacel "shackle, fetter," probably also in a general sense "a link or ring of a chain," from Proto-Germanic *skakula- (cognates: Middle Dutch, Dutch schakel "link of a chain, ring of a net," Old Norse skökull "pole of a carriage"), of uncertain origin. According to OED, the common notion of "something to fasten or attach" makes a connection with shake unlikely. Figurative use from early 13c. Related: Shackledom "marriage" (1771); shackle-bone "the wrist" (1570s).
- shackle (v.)
- mid-15c., from shackle (n.). Figurative use from 1560s. Related: Shackled; shackling.
Example
- 1. Follow your heart , don 't be locked by the practical shackle .
- 2. Who strings up her victims by shackle and chain ?
- 3. This issue always is a shackle which confines the brand building of industry product .
- 4. He 's too young to shackle himself with the responsibilities of a family .
- 5. In america , meanwhile , the plans taking shape face resistance , partly from the bankers they will shackle but even more from regulators and lawmakers .