Entry Word: fetter

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 something that limits one's freedom of action or choice <a time-honored tradition is fine as long as it doesnʼt become a fetter that prevents us from trying something new> — see restriction 1
2 something that makes movement or progress more difficult <claims that government regulations are unnecessary fetters that keep him from achieving his business goals> — see encumbrance
3 something that physically prevents free movement <considered a seat belt a pointless fetter—until one saved his life in an auto accident> — see bond 1