darbies

[ dahr-beez ]

plural noun

, British Slang.

1. handcuffs; manacles.

darbies

/ ˈdɑːbɪz /

plural noun

1. See handcuff
   short for handcuffs See handcuff

Word History and Origins

Origin of darbies¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of darbies¹

C16: perhaps from the phrase Father Derby's or Father Darby's bonds, a rigid agreement between a usurer and his client

Example Sentences

Trimm, the swell financeer, sportin' 'round with the darbies on him all nice an' snug an' reg'lar!

From Project Gutenberg

It don't make any difference what his game is, right here is where he gets into a pair of darbies.

From Project Gutenberg

Here, constables, put the darbies on 'em, and take 'em back to Hobarton.'

From Project Gutenberg

Look at the wee han's on 'em to slip out of darbies like the same.

From Project Gutenberg

I have put the darbies on the most terrible ruffian of modern times.'

From Project Gutenberg