Unshackle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unshackle

[ʌnˈʃækəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

free from restraints

To unshackle means to release from restraints or constraints. It is often used in the context of setting someone free from physical bonds or restrictions. Unshackling can also refer to freeing oneself from mental or emotional constraints.

Synonyms

emancipate, free, liberate, release, unbind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unshackle

Used when referring to the act of removing physical or metaphorical chains or restraints.

  • He felt unshackled after quitting his oppressive job
release

Typically used when talking about letting someone or something go from confinement or control.

  • He was released from prison after serving his sentence
liberate

Frequently used to describe freeing someone from oppression or confinement, often on a larger scale, like in political or military contexts.

  • The army was able to liberate the occupied city
free

A general term that can be used in many contexts to indicate the release from something restricting or binding.

  • She finally felt free after resolving her conflicts
unbind

Refers to the act of removing physical restraints, such as ropes or ties.

  • They proceeded to unbind the hostages after the negotiation
emancipate

Often used in the context of granting freedom from legal, social, or political restrictions.

  • The law was passed to emancipate minors from abusive homes

Examples of usage

  • He managed to unshackle himself from the handcuffs.
  • The organization aims to unshackle the oppressed from their chains of poverty.
  • She needed to unshackle herself from the fear that was holding her back.
  • The decision to unshackle the company from outdated practices led to its success.
  • The key to progress is to unshackle ourselves from the limitations of the past.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'unshackle'

The word 'unshackle' originates from the combination of 'un-' meaning 'not' or 'reverse the action of' and 'shackle' which comes from Middle English 'schakel' meaning 'a link or loop of a chain'. Together, 'unshackle' implies the action of removing or reversing the link or loop of a chain, thus freeing someone or something from constraints or restrictions.


See also: shackles, unshackling.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,814, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.