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shackle

shack·le

shackle

 
 
pronunciation:
shae kl
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb)
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a metal band or one of a pair of metal rings used to bind the wrist or ankle of a prisoner or animal.
We could hear the clanking of the prisoners' shackles as they were marched into the yard.
synonyms:
fetter, iron, manacle
similar words:
chain, trammel
definition 2: (often pl.) something that impedes freedom of thought or action.
Have we cast off the shackles of sexism?
synonyms:
barrier, fetter
similar words:
chain
definition 3: any of various devices, often U-shaped and of metal, used to hold or join, such as the movable loop on a padlock.
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part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: shackles, shackling, shackled
definition 1: to bind, confine, or join by using a shackle.
synonyms:
fetter, iron, manacle
antonyms:
unshackle
similar words:
bind, chain, enchain, handcuff, pinion, restrain, secure, trammel
definition 2: to restrict the progress or freedom of.
Old traditions shackled their social advancement.
synonyms:
fetter, hamper, hinder, impede
antonyms:
unshackle
similar words:
bar, block, confine, handicap, hogtie, manacle, obstruct, restrict, stop, thwart
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derivation: shackler (n.)