Handcuffing: meaning, definitions and examples

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handcuffing

 

[ˈhændˌkʌfɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law enforcement

Handcuffing refers to the act of restraining an individual's wrists with handcuffs, typically used by law enforcement officials to prevent suspects from fleeing or causing harm. This practice is usually employed during arrests to ensure the safety of both the officer and the public. Handcuffing is a crucial part of police procedures and is generally perceived as a temporary measure until further action can be taken. Proper handcuffing techniques are essential for minimizing risk of injury.

Synonyms

binding, detaining, restraining.

Examples of usage

  • The officer began handcuffing the suspect after reading him his rights.
  • For the suspect's safety, the police were careful while handcuffing.
  • During the arrest, the suspect was handcuffed and taken into custody.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from the early 1600s and was derived from 'cuff', meaning a fold or band around the wrist.
  • Handcuffs were initially made of leather or cloth before evolving to metal for greater security in the 19th century.

Law Enforcement

  • Handcuffs are commonly used by police to secure individuals during arrests, preventing escape or harming themselves and others.
  • There are several types of handcuffs, including single or double-locking designs for additional security.

Psychological Impact

  • The use of handcuffs can create a sense of helplessness, which may affect the detained person's mental state.
  • In some cases, the visibility of handcuffs can lead to social stigma, affecting how the person is treated by others.

Cultural References

  • Handcuffs often appear in movies and TV shows to depict crime and law enforcement, shaping societal views on police work.
  • The imagery of handcuffs is frequently associated with dramatic arrests in popular culture, but they also symbolize restraint and loss of freedom.

Safety and Use

  • Proper training in using handcuffs is essential for law enforcement to prevent injury to both officers and individuals.
  • Some law enforcement agencies are exploring softer alternatives to traditional handcuffs to reduce discomfort for those detained.

Translations

Translations of the word "handcuffing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 algemação

🇮🇳 हथकड़ी लगाना

🇩🇪 Handschellen anlegen

🇮🇩 mengikat dengan borgol

🇺🇦 надягати наручники

🇵🇱 zakładanie kajdanek

🇯🇵 手錠をかけること

🇫🇷 mise sous les menottes

🇪🇸 poner las esposas

🇹🇷 kelepçe takmak

🇰🇷 수갑을 채우다

🇸🇦 تثبيت الأصفاد

🇨🇿 nasazení pout

🇸🇰 nasadenie put

🇨🇳 戴上手铐

🇸🇮 naložitev lisic

🇮🇸 setja handjárn

🇰🇿 қолғап салу

🇬🇪 ხელმოწერა

🇦🇿 qolbağı qoymaq

🇲🇽 poner las esposas

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,883, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.