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Handcuffed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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handcuffed

[หˆhรฆndหŒkสŒft ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical restraint

The term 'handcuffed' refers to the action of securing a person's wrists together using handcuffs, typically by law enforcement authorities. This physical restraint is used to prevent a person from escaping or causing harm during an arrest or while being transported. Handcuffs are designed to be tight-fitting and difficult to remove without the proper key, ensuring the safety of both the officer and the detained individual. The use of handcuffs is often surrounded by discussions regarding civil rights and the appropriateness of their application in different scenarios.

Synonyms

bound, restrained, secured.

Examples of usage

  • The suspect was handcuffed and taken into custody.
  • She felt vulnerable and embarrassed while being handcuffed.
  • During certain situations, police may opt to have individuals handcuffed for their safety.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law Enforcement

  • Handcuffs are commonly used by police to restrain suspects for safety, preventing them from escaping or causing harm.
  • There are specific guidelines for using handcuffs to ensure the safety of both the officer and the individual being restrained.

Psychology

  • Being handcuffed can evoke feelings of fear or anxiety, as it symbolizes loss of freedom and control.
  • The sight of handcuffs can influence public perception regarding crime and justice, often leading to assumptions about guilt.

Pop Culture

  • Handcuffs often appear in movies and TV shows as a representation of law enforcement and justice.
  • Songs and popular media also use the imagery of handcuffs to explore themes of love, bondage, or personal struggle.

Safety and Design

  • Modern handcuffs are designed to be quick to apply and difficult to escape from, often featuring double-lock mechanisms for added security.
  • Different types of handcuffs, like plastic ones, are used in certain situations, particularly during protests or crowd control.

Origin of 'handcuffed'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'handcuff' comes from the Old English word 'hand' and the word 'cuff,' which refers to a protective covering for the hands.
  • The first recorded use of metal handcuffs dates back to the 16th century, with their design evolving over the years.

The word 'handcuffed' derives from the combination of 'hand' and 'cuff', where 'hand' refers to the part of the body that the device is meant to restrain, and 'cuff' originates from the Old French term 'coffe', meaning 'a wrist or arm.' The term began to evolve in the context of law enforcement and security during the early 20th century. Initially, various forms of restraints were used by authorities to maintain order, but the modern metal handcuff design became widely adopted in the 19th century, particularly in the United States. The increase in urbanization and crime during that period necessitated more effective means of securing individuals in custody. As policing techniques continued to develop, the use of handcuffs became standard procedure, leading to discussions and debates about their implications in terms of civil liberties and humane treatment.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,036, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.