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Fettered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fettered

[ˈfɛtərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical restraint

Fettered refers to being restrained or shackled, often used in a context where someone is bound or hindered in movement. This term can also metaphorically describe someone who is limited in their ability to act freely, implying a restriction on personal freedom or agency. It evokes imagery of chains or bonds that prevent movement, whether they are literal or figurative.

Synonyms

bound, constrained, hindered, restricted, shackled.

Examples of usage

  • The prisoners were fettered and unable to escape.
  • Her creativity felt fettered by the rigid guidelines.
  • He lived a fettered life, bound by societal expectations.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In ancient times, fetters were commonly used to restrain slaves and prisoners during transport.
  • Fettering was a way to control individuals perceived as dangerous or rebellious throughout history.
  • Fettered individuals often faced severe limitations in their rights and freedoms, sparking many social justice movements.

Literature

  • Many poems and stories explore the theme of being fettered as a metaphor for oppression and lack of freedom.
  • Shakespeare often used the concept of fettering in his works to illustrate moral and emotional struggles.
  • In 'The Caged Bird', Maya Angelou symbolizes a fettered life through the experiences of a trapped bird, yearning for freedom.

Psychology

  • In a psychological sense, feeling fettered can represent one's mental or emotional limitations.
  • Many people feel fettered by societal expectations, which can lead to feelings of frustration and anxiety.
  • Therapeutic approaches often involve breaking free from these mental fetters to improve personal well-being.

Pop Culture

  • In the television series 'Game of Thrones', characters often discuss being fettered by loyalty or family ties.
  • Movies sometimes depict fettered heroes as they strive to break free from their chains, representing a broader personal struggle.
  • Music often uses the concept metaphorically to describe relationships that feel limiting or constraining.

Origin of 'fettered'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Fetter' comes from the Old French word 'fetre', which means 'to shackle'.
  • The word has roots in the Latin 'feder', meaning 'to bind'.
  • Historically, fetters were chains used on prisoners to prevent escape.

The word 'fettered' comes from the Middle English word 'fetteren', which is derived from the Old French term 'fetre' and further back to the Proto-Germanic 'fetrō' meaning 'to bind'. Historically, fetters referred to the leg irons or restraints used on prisoners to prevent escape, symbolizing captivity. Over time, its usage broadened to encompass figurative meanings, describing any restrictions that limit freedom or action, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. The word reflects the structure of bonds that can be seen not only in physical contexts but also in social or emotional situations.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,487, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.