chain gang

American  

noun

1. a group of convicts chained together, especially when working outside.

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chain gang British  

noun

1. a group of convicted prisoners chained together, usually while doing hard labour

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Etymology

Origin of chain gang

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

Ivey noted it’s one of the only remaining places in the country where a chain gang still operates.

From Seattle Times

But as busy as UW’s defense makes the chain gang, it doesn’t overwork the scoreboard operator.

From Seattle Times

The league likes the drama of a chain gang stretching to measure for that first down.

From Los Angeles Times

Rustin helped organize the first freedom rides and once spent 22 days on a North Carolina chain gang after being arrested on one ride.

From Seattle Times

“And he said, ‘I listen to scratchy vinyl records of chain gangs from the ’20s and ’30s and it’s so haunting.

From Los Angeles Times