Handcuffing: meaning, definitions and examples

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handcuffing

 

[ ˈhændˌkʌfɪŋ ]

Verb
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.

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

Etymology

The term 'handcuff' dates back to the late 17th century, originating from the combination of 'hand' and 'cuff.' The word 'cuff' itself comes from the Middle English term 'coffe,' which referred to a wrist or the end of a sleeve. The practice of using handcuffs as a means of restraint has been employed for centuries, tracing back to various forms of physical restraint used in different cultures. The design of handcuffs, consisting of metal rings connected by a chain or hinge, has evolved over time, with modern handcuffs being specifically designed for durability and effectiveness in apprehending individuals. Historically, handcuffs have been integral to policing and legal systems, symbolizing authority and the containment of individuals deemed a threat to public safety.

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.