Definition of shackle
1 : something (such as a manacle or fetter) that confines the legs or arms
2 : something that checks or prevents free action as if by fetters —usually used in plural
3 : a usually U-shaped fastening device secured by a bolt or pin through holes in the end of the two arms
4 : a length of cable or anchor chain of usually 15 fathoms
From the M-W Editors
Examples of shackle in a Sentence
placed shackles on the legs of the prisoners
the shackles of illiteracy can be just as confining as leg irons
Origin and Etymology of shackle
Middle English schakel, from Old English sceacul; akin to Old Norse skǫkull pole of a cart
First Known Use: before 12th century
Examples of shackle in a Sentence
The guard shackled the prisoner.
unwilling to shackle the dogs to the wall of the house
15th Century
First Known Use of shackle
15th century
Synonym Discussion of shackle
SHACKLE Defined for English Language Learners
shackle
playDefinition of shackle for English Language Learners
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: one of two rings or bands that are placed around a person's wrists or ankles and that are connected by a chain
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shackles : something that prevents people from acting freely
shackle
Definition of shackle for English Language Learners
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: to put shackles on (someone or something)
SHACKLE Defined for Kids
Definition of shackle for Students
1 : a ring or band that prevents free use of the legs or arms
2 : something that prevents free action The country was freed from the shackles of oppression.
Definition of shackle for Students
shackled
;shackling
1 : to bind or fasten with a ring or band placed on the legs or arms
2 : to prevent free action
Learn More about shackle
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See words that rhyme with shackle Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for shackle Spanish Central: Translation of shackle Nglish: Translation of shackle for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of shackle for Arabic speakers
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