Manacles: meaning, definitions and examples

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manacles

[ˈmanək(ə)lz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

restraining devices

Manacles are metal restraints that are used to secure a person's wrists or ankles, typically in a law enforcement or prison setting. They are designed to restrict movement and prevent escape.

Synonyms

cuffs, fetters, shackles.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manacles	Typically used in historic or formal contexts to describe metal restraints for the wrists. The medieval prisoner was held in manacles The police officers removed the manacles once the suspect was secured in the interrogation room
fetters	Often used to describe ankle restraints, typically in historical or formal contexts, and can also be used metaphorically. The slave's feet were bound by iron fetters She felt fettered by the constraints of her everyday life
shackles	General term used to describe restraints for wrists or ankles, can be used in both historical and modern contexts, often conveys a sense of severe restriction. The captives were chained together by heavy shackles His ambitions were shackled by his lack of resources
cuffs	Commonly used in everyday language to refer to handcuffs used by law enforcement or security personnel. The thief was put in cuffs after the chase The security guard snapped the cuffs around the shoplifter's wrists

Examples of usage

They put the criminal in manacles before transporting him to the courthouse.
The prisoner's manacles were removed once he arrived at the correctional facility.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to restrain or confine

To manacle someone means to physically or metaphorically restrain or confine them, limiting their freedom or actions. It can also signify a form of control or oppression.

Synonyms

confine, restrain, shackle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manacles	Used mainly in legal and law enforcement contexts to describe handcuffs or devices that lock someone's hands. Often implies a physical restraint. The police officer put manacles on the suspect's wrists. The old prison displayed a set of rusty manacles used centuries ago.
shackle	Used similarly to manacles but can also metaphorically describe severe limitations, often with a negative connotation. It can refer to physical restraints like chains. The prisoner was shackled and led to the courtroom. Societal norms can shackle creativity and innovation.
restrain	Used to describe preventing someone from having control or freedom, often physically or emotionally. It can also refer to controlling emotions or actions. The security guard had to restrain the angry customer. He managed to restrain his anger during the meeting.
confine	Used broadly to describe restricting someone's movement, freedom, or activities, not necessarily with physical restraints. Can also describe limiting within a space. The artist's creativity was confined by strict guidelines. During the storm, they were confined to their home.

Examples of usage

The oppressive regime sought to manacle any form of dissent among its citizens.
She felt manacled by the expectations placed upon her by society.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'manacle' comes from the Latin word 'manicula,' meaning 'little hand,' reflecting its purpose in restraining.
In ancient times, manacles were often used by soldiers to control prisoners during battles or while transporting them.
Manacles have been used throughout various cultures as symbols of captivity and control, dating back to at least 3000 BC.

Law Enforcement

Modern manacles are typically made from steel, designed for strength and to ensure the safety of both the officer and the suspect.
In some regions, using manacles is regulated by law to prevent excessive force or mistreatment of detained individuals.
There’s ongoing debate about the use of manacles in police procedures, with advocates calling for alternatives that maintain dignity.

Literature

Manacles often appear in literary works as symbols of oppression, addressing themes of freedom versus captivity.
Classic novels, such as 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' depict characters who are restrained by manacles to evoke feelings of despair.
In poetry, manacles are sometimes used metaphorically to discuss emotional or societal constraints.

Psychology

The use of manacles can lead to feelings of humiliation and loss of control, significantly impacting a person's mental health.
Experiences involving restraint, including the use of manacles, can evoke trauma, especially in historical contexts like slavery.
Research shows that the physical experience of being restrained can lead to heightened anxiety and stress responses.

Art and Culture

Artistically, manacles have been used in various forms to represent and critique social issues, such as injustice and inequality.
In modern art exhibitions, manacles can symbolize the ongoing struggles against oppression and the fight for freedom.
The imagery of manacles is often found in music and performance art to convey powerful messages about power dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "manacles" in other languages:

🇵🇹 grilhões

🇮🇳 हथकड़ी

🇩🇪 Handschellen

🇮🇩 belenggu

🇺🇦 кайдани

🇵🇱 kajdany

🇯🇵 手錠

🇫🇷 menottes

🇪🇸 esposas

🇹🇷 kelepçe

🇰🇷 수갑

🇸🇦 أصفاد

🇨🇿 pouta

🇸🇰 putá

🇨🇳 手铐

🇸🇮 lisice

🇮🇸 handjárn

🇰🇿 кісен

🇬🇪 ბორკილი

🇦🇿 qandallar

🇲🇽 esposas

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,554 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32551 stateside
32552 diaphoresis
32553 occultism
32554 manacles
32555 copulate
32556 dace
32557 swamping
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