manacle

UK: ˈmæn.ə.kəl | US: ˈmæn.ə.kəl

Definition

  1. n. a metal band, chain, or shackle for fastening someone’s hands or ankles

  2. vt. to restrain with or as if with manacles

Structure
man <hand>acle <diminutive suffix>
Etymology

The word manacle traces back to Latin manicula, a diminutive of manus (hand), originally referring to a "little hand" or "handle." Over time, it evolved to denote a restraining device for hands or wrists, reflecting its function as a "hand tool" for confinement. The suffix -acle reinforces the instrumental nature of the object.

Examples

  1. The prisoner’s manacles clinked as he raised his hands.

  2. Authorities manacled the suspect before transporting him.

  3. The old dungeon walls still bore rusted manacles.

  4. She felt manacled by societal expectations.

  5. The detective found broken manacles near the escape route.