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manacle

noun

/ˈmæn ə kəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of manacle

A metal shackle or handcuff used to restrain or confine a person's hands or wrists.
"The detective used a manacle to restrain the suspect's hands."

Detailed meaning of manacle

Typically made of iron or steel, manacles consist of two interconnected metal rings or loops that encircle the wrists, often with a connecting chain or bar. They are designed to restrict the movement of individuals, whether as a form of punishment, restraint, or confinement. Manacles have been historically employed by various authorities, such as law enforcement, as a means of controlling and subduing prisoners or individuals deemed to be a threat. The use of manacles dates back centuries and has been associated with the deprivation of freedom and the curtailment of one's autonomy. Today, manacles are primarily symbolic and are often depicted in literature and artwork as a representation of captivity or oppression.

Example sentences containing manacle

1. The manacle on the prisoner's wrist clinked as he walked.
2. She felt the cold, metal manacle tighten around her ankle.
3. The ancient dungeon was filled with rusty manacles hanging from the walls.
4. The pirate captain ordered the crew to manacle the captured prisoners.
5. He struggled to break free from the manacle, but it held him firmly.
6. The escape artist wowed the audience by slipping out of the manacle in seconds.

History and etymology of manacle

The noun 'manacle' has a historical etymology rooted in the Middle English word 'manicle,' which came from the Old French word 'manicle' as well. The Old French term was influenced by the Latin word 'manicula,' which is a diminutive form of 'manus,' meaning 'hand.' Therefore, the etymology of 'manacle' can be traced back to Latin and essentially means a small hand or hand-sized object. Over time, the term 'manacle' evolved to refer to a specific type of restraining device designed to encircle and confine a person's hands or wrists. The connection between the word's origin and its use as a restraint highlights the historical significance of these devices in controlling and restricting individuals, especially in the context of law enforcement or imprisonment.

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Further usage examples of manacle

1. The manacle left deep bruises on his wrists from the tight restraints.
2. The prisoner's attempt to remove the manacle was unsuccessful.
3. The police officer applied the manacle to secure the handcuffs.
4. The old, abandoned prison was haunted by the ghosts of those who had worn the manacles.
5. The manacle clasp was intricate, making it difficult to pick.
6. The medieval knight wore a manacle on his armor to symbolize his loyalty.
7. The criminal mastermind had a reputation for escaping even the most secure manacles.
8. She found an antique manacle at the flea market and displayed it as a curiosity in her home.
9. The manacle was heavy and uncomfortable, making it challenging for him to move.
10. The manacle was a grim reminder of the harsh conditions faced by prisoners in the past.
11. The detective inspected the manacle for any signs of tampering.
12. He couldn't believe his luck when the manacle holding him broke.
13. The manacle served as a symbol of oppression and captivity throughout history.
14. The manacle clanked loudly as it secured his wrists, imprisoning him.
15. With a swift twist, he broke free from the rusty manacle's grip.
16. The cold steel manacle chafed his skin, leaving painful marks.
17. She watched in horror as the manacle tightened around his wrist.
18. Escaping the manacle's grasp required cunning and determination.
19. The detective found a hidden key to unlock the manacle's hold.
20. The manacle dangled from the dungeon wall, a sinister reminder.
21. Freedom was just a maneuver away from the unlocked manacle.
22. Sweat trickled down his face as he struggled with the stubborn manacle.
23. The prisoner's defiance couldn't break the unyielding manacle.
24. He dreamt of a life without the heavy burden of the manacle.