fetter

[ fet-er ]

noun

1. a chain or shackle placed on the feet.
2. Usually fetters. anything that confines or restrains:

   Boredom puts fetters upon the imagination.

verb (used with object)

1. to put fetters upon.
2. to confine; restrain.

fetter

/ ˈfɛtə /

noun

1. often plural a chain or bond fastened round the ankle; shackle
2. usually plural a check or restraint

   in fetters

verb

1. to restrict or confine
2. to bind in fetters

Derived Forms

• ˈfetterer, noun
• ˈfetterless, adjective

Other Words From

• fetter·er noun
• fetter·less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of fetter¹

before 900; Middle English, Old English feter; cognate with Old High German fezzera, Old Norse fjǫturr; akin to foot

Word History and Origins

Origin of fetter¹

Old English fetor ; related to Old Norse fjöturr fetter, Old High German fezzera , Latin pedica fetter, impedīre to hinder

Example Sentences

I wonder how it comes,” he asked, “that all these strangers are so quick afoot, and we must drag about our fetter?

From Project Gutenberg

He was a grave lad; he had no mind to dance himself; he wore his fetter manfully, and tended his ulcer without complaint.

From Project Gutenberg

He thought to leave the fetter where it lay, but when he turned to go, his mind was otherwise.

From Project Gutenberg

When politics possess the soul, they fetter it with contemptible pride, paltry ambitions.

From Project Gutenberg

Taking this fetter to the wolf, they bade him try his strength on it.

From Project Gutenberg