Manacle: meaning, definitions and examples

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manacle

[ˈmæn.ə.kəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

metal restraints

A metal band, chain, or shackle for fastening someone's hands or ankles.

Synonyms

cuffs, restraints, shackles.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manacle	This word is often used in a more formal or literary context, referring to handcuffs or other devices used to restrict someone's movement, especially the hands. The prisoner wore heavy manacles that clinked with every step The ancient manacles were found in the old dungeon
shackles	Usually refers to heavy chains or rings used to bind the ankles or wrists, often evoking images of historical periods, slavery, or severe punishment. The prisoners' ankles were bound together with iron shackles She could hear the clanking of shackles as the guards approached
cuffs	A more casual term for devices used by police to restrain someone's wrists. It is commonly used in everyday language and police jargon. The officer placed the suspect in cuffs and led him to the patrol car She felt the cold metal of the cuffs as they locked around her wrists
restraints	A general term that can refer to any devices or methods used to limit someone's movement, often used in medical, correctional, or safety contexts. It does not necessarily imply confinement of the hands. The patient was put in restraints for their own safety The prison guard spoke about the use of restraints on violent inmates

Examples of usage

He was led away in manacles.
The prisoner's manacles were removed.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

physical or mental restraint

To restrain or confine someone physically or mentally.

Synonyms

confine, restrain, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manacle	Use 'manacle' in situations referring to physical restraints, usually handcuffs or similar devices, often in a context of law enforcement or imprisonment. The police officer placed the manacles on the suspect's wrists. The prisoner struggled against the manacles that bound his hands.
restrain	Use 'restrain' when referring to holding someone back physically, stopping them from moving freely, or controlling their actions or emotions. This can also have a broader, metaphorical use. The security guard had to restrain the aggressive fan. She had to restrain herself from shouting.
confine	Use 'confine' when talking about restricting someone's movement or keeping someone in a limited space, not necessarily with physical devices. This can be used in a physical or metaphorical sense. The patient was confined to his bed for weeks. Her responsibilities at work confined her creativity.
shackle	Use 'shackle' when referring to metal restraints typically used to bind a person's wrists or ankles. It can also mean something that limits freedom or movement, either physically or metaphorically. This word often carries a more negative connotation than 'manacle'. The prisoners were shackled together for the transport. He felt shackled by his demanding job.

Examples of usage

He felt as though he had been manacled by the law.
The strict rules manacled his creativity.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'manicula,' meaning 'little hand' or 'hand trap.'
The old French word 'manacle' also influenced its current spelling and meaning.
The term has been used since the 15th century to describe devices that restrain hands.

History

Manacles have been used throughout history, particularly in contexts of war and imprisonment.
In ancient Rome, captives were often shackled using manacles as a form of control during transport.
During the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved people were often shackled to prevent escape.

Law & Society

In modern law enforcement, manacles are routinely used by police to prevent suspects from escaping.
The use of handcuffs is regulated in many jurisdictions to ensure proper treatment of detainees.
Public debate often arises over the humane use of restraints such as manacles during arrests.

Literature

Manacles often symbolize confinement and loss of freedom in various literary works.
Authors like Charles Dickens used manacles to depict the harsh realities of imprisonment in their novels.
Symbolically, they can represent emotional or psychological constraints faced by characters.

Pop Culture

In movies and TV shows, manacles are a common visual trope used to illustrate a character's captivity.
Fictional works often use manacles to create dramatic tension during rescue or escape scenes.
The image of chained characters has become a powerful metaphor for oppression in many forms of media.

Translations

Translations of the word "manacle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 algema

🇮🇳 हथकड़ी

🇩🇪 Handschelle

🇮🇩 borgol

🇺🇦 кайдани

🇵🇱 kajdany

🇯🇵 手錠

🇫🇷 menotte

🇪🇸 esposas

🇹🇷 kelepçe

🇰🇷 수갑

🇸🇦 أصفاد

🇨🇿 želízka

🇸🇰 putá

🇨🇳 手铐

🇸🇮 lisice

🇮🇸 handjárn

🇰🇿 кісен

🇬🇪 ბორკილი

🇦🇿 qandallar

🇲🇽 esposas

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,052, 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.

...
39049 titmice
39050 perfidiously
39051 unemotionally
39052 manacle
39053 outbidding
39054 racoon
39055 arthroscope
...