darbies

American  

[dahr-beez] / ˈdɑr biz /

plural noun

British Slang.

1. handcuffs; manacles.

---

darbies British  

/ ˈdɑːbɪz /

plural noun

1. short for handcuffs See handcuff

---

Etymology

Origin of darbies

First recorded in 1565–75; probably from the phrase Darby's bonds a rigid bond, perhaps named after a noted 16th-century usurer

Example Sentences

The great escapist simply banged the darbies on the pillar and walked off.

From Time Magazine Archive

The next instant the darbies were on her tender wrists, and we will add that no resistance was offered.

From Cad Metti, The Female Detective Strategist Dudie Dunne Again in the Field by Halsey, Harlan Page

Then he turned to the red-whiskered man, and inquired fiercely, why he hadn't put the darbies on the scoundrel.

From Bred in the Bone by Payn, James

To twig the darbies, to knock of the irons.

From The Surprising Adventures of Bampfylde Moore Carew King of the Beggars; containing his Life, a Dictionary of the Cant Language, and many Entertaining Particulars of that Extraordinary Man by Unknown

The detective made up his mind to feel his man; and should he discover that the fellow really did not know him, and was dogging him, he was resolved to clap the darbies on him.

From The Dock Rats of New York by Halsey, Harlan Page