Manacles: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.