Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Fetter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⛓️
Add to dictionary

fetter

[ˈfɛtər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

metal

A chain or manacle used to restrain a prisoner, typically placed around the ankles.

Synonyms

cuff, restraint, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
fetter

Primarily used in both literal and figurative senses to describe something that restricts freedom or movement. Often used in a more formal or literary context.

  • He felt fettered by the strict rules of the institution.
  • The prisoners were fettered to prevent their escape.
shackle

Similar to 'fetter', but often used to describe heavier, more imposing forms of physical restraints like leg irons. Can also be used figuratively to describe severe limitations.

  • The prisoners were shackled together with heavy chains.
  • She felt shackled by her responsibilities at work.
cuff

Generally refers to a physical restraint used on wrists, commonly known as handcuffs. Also can refer to the end part of a sleeve. Used in law enforcement or certain fashion contexts.

  • The police officer placed the suspect in cuffs.
  • He adjusted the cuffs of his shirt before the meeting.
restraint

This word has a broad application and can be used to describe both physical devices and non-physical forms of control. It is often used in legal, psychological, or general contexts to indicate holding back or limiting someone's actions.

  • The patient was placed in restraints to prevent self-harm.
  • He showed great restraint by not reacting to the provocation.

Examples of usage

  • He was bound in fetters and chains.
  • The prisoner struggled against the fetters.
Context #2 | Verb

restrain

Restrain with chains or manacles, typically around the ankles.

Synonyms

bind, confine, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
fetter

Best used in a poetic or formal context to describe being restricted or held back, often metaphorically. It carries a strong connotation of limitation or control.

  • The artist felt fettered by societal expectations
  • His creativity was fettered by the constraints of the corporate world
shackle

Used primarily in contexts involving physical restraint, often with a negative connotation. It can also describe severe metaphorical restrictions or limitations.

  • The prisoners were shackled together
  • Her responsibilities shackled her dreams of traveling the world
bind

Appropriate for a broad range of situations, from physical tying to metaphorical commitments or obligations. It can have both neutral and negative undertones depending on the context.

  • She used a rope to bind the package
  • They were bound by their promise to each other
confine

Often used to denote restricting someone or something within certain boundaries, whether physical, emotional, or geographical. It can have a negative connotation of limitation or constraint.

  • The patient was confined to bed for a week
  • Don't let your fears confine you

Examples of usage

  • The prisoner was fettered to the wall.
  • She felt fettered by society's expectations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, fetters were commonly used as shackles for prisoners or slaves, symbolizing oppression.
  • In medieval times, fetters often included heavy chains to hinder escape from castles or dungeons.
  • The abolition movement used the term to describe the breaking of physical and metaphorical chains of slavery.

Literature

  • In literature, fetters are often used as metaphors for personal struggles and societal constraints.
  • Classic authors like Charles Dickens incorporate the idea of fetters to represent the limitations imposed by society on individual freedom.
  • The theme of overcoming fetters can be found in many novels, symbolizing the journey toward liberation.

Psychology

  • In psychology, 'fetter' can refer to mental chains, like fears or anxieties that hold a person back from reaching their potential.
  • Therapeutic practices often aim to help individuals break free from emotional and psychological fetters to achieve personal growth.
  • The concept of self-imposed fetters highlights how our beliefs can restrict our ability to succeed in life.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often use the idea of fetters to describe relationships that feel binding or restrictive.
  • Movies depict characters breaking their fetters as a pivotal moment in their quest for freedom, echoing the universal desire to escape limitations.
  • Popular quotes about freedom frequently use the metaphor of fetters to illustrate struggles against oppression.

Origin of 'fetter'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'fetor,' meaning a chain or a bond.
  • It is related to the word 'foot,' as it originally referred to restraints that bound feet.
  • This term has roots in Latin and Germanic languages, showing a shared concept of binding or restricting movement.

The word 'fetter' originated from Middle English 'feter', from Old English 'feter', of Germanic origin. It has been used since the 14th century to refer to chains or shackles used to restrain someone.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,963, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.