SHACKLE

Shackle

A shackle, also known as a gyve, is a U-shaped piece of metal secured with a clevis pin or bolt across the opening, or a hinged metal loop secured with a quick-release locking pin mechanism. The term also applies to handcuffs and other similarly conceived restraint devices that function in a similar manner. Shackles are the primary connecting link in all manner of rigging systems, from boats and ships to industrial crane rigging, as they allow different rigging subsets to be connected or disconnected quickly. A shackle is also the similarly shaped piece of metal used with a locking mechanism in padlocks.

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shackle

Noun

  1. A restraint fit over a human or animal appendage, such as a wrist, ankle or finger. Usually used in plural, to indicate a pair joined by a chain; a hobble.
  2. A U-shaped piece of metal secured with a pin or bolt across the opening, or a hinged metal loop secured with a quick-release locking pin mechanism.
  3. A restraint on one's action, activity, or progress.
  4. A fetter-like band worn as an ornament.
  5. A link for connecting railroad cars; a drawlink or draglink.
  6. stubble

Verb

  1. To restrain using shackles; to place in shackles.
  2. By extension, to render immobile or incapable; to inhibit the progress or abilities of someone or something.
    This law would effectively shackle its opposition.


The above text is a snippet from Wiktionary: shackle
and as such is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

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