fetter
UK: ˈfetə | US: ˈfet̬ɚ
n. a chain or shackle for the feet (used to restrain movement)
vt. to restrain or restrict someone’s freedom
fetter = fet<chain> + er<noun suffix>
- fet<chain>: From Old English feter, meaning "a chain or shackle," derived from Proto-Germanic feterō.
- er<noun suffix>: A common English suffix forming nouns denoting objects or tools.
Etymology Origin:
The word fetter traces back to Old English feter, which originally referred to a physical chain for restraining feet. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to signify any form of restriction or limitation on freedom. The Proto-Germanic root feterō shares kinship with Old Norse fjǫturr and German Fessel, all conveying the idea of binding. The simplicity of its structure—root + suffix—reflects its ancient Germanic origins as a practical tool of restraint.
The prisoner’s legs were bound with iron fetters.
Fear can fetter creativity and innovation.
She refused to let tradition fetter her ambitions.
The old regulations fetter progress in the industry.
His guilt acted like invisible fetters on his mind.