Chains: meaning, definitions and examples

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chains

 

[ tʃeɪnz ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

metal

Chains are a series of connected metal links or rings used for various purposes such as restraining, securing, or lifting objects.

Synonyms

bonds, fetters, links, shackles

Examples of usage

  • The prisoner was bound in chains and escorted to his cell.
  • The ship's anchor was attached to heavy chains to keep it in place.
  • The chains on the swing creaked as the children played.
  • The chains on the gate rattled in the wind.
  • She wore a delicate gold chain around her neck.
Context #2 | Noun

restaurants

Chains are a type of restaurant with multiple locations, often offering standardized menus and decor.

Synonyms

branch, brand, franchise, group

Examples of usage

  • We decided to go to the chain restaurant for a quick meal.
  • The fast-food chain is known for its burgers and fries.
  • She works part-time at a popular coffee chain.
Context #3 | Verb

restrict

To chain means to restrict or confine someone or something by using chains or similar restraints.

Synonyms

bind, confine, fetter, shackle

Examples of usage

  • The guard chained the prisoner to the wall.
  • They chained the gate to prevent entry.

Translations

Translations of the word "chains" in other languages:

🇵🇹 correntes

🇮🇳 जंजीरें

🇩🇪 Ketten

🇮🇩 rantai

🇺🇦 ланцюги

🇵🇱 łańcuchy

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 chaînes

🇪🇸 cadenas

🇹🇷 zincirler

🇰🇷 사슬

🇸🇦 سلاسل

🇨🇿 řetězy

🇸🇰 reťaze

🇨🇳 链条

🇸🇮 verige

🇮🇸 keðjur

🇰🇿 тізбектер

🇬🇪 ჯაჭვები

🇦🇿 zəncirlər

🇲🇽 cadenas

Word origin

The word 'chains' originates from Middle English 'chaines', which came from Old French 'chaine'. The concept of chains has been around for centuries, initially used for practical purposes like securing items or prisoners. Over time, the meaning of chains expanded to include metaphorical references to restrictions or interconnected establishments. Chains have evolved to symbolize both physical constraints and interconnected networks in various contexts.

See also: chain, unchained.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,053, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.