handcuff

American  

[hand-kuhf] / ˈhændˌkʌf /

noun

1. a ring-shaped metal device that can be locked around a person's wrist, usually one of a pair connected by a short chain or linked bar; shackle.

   The police put handcuffs on the suspect.

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verb (used with object)

1. to put handcuffs on.

2. to restrain or thwart (someone) by or as if by handcuffing.

   The amendments handcuffed the committee and prevented further action.

handcuff British  

/ ˈhændˌkʌf /

verb

1. (tr) to put handcuffs on (a person); manacle

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noun

1. (plural) a pair of locking metal rings joined by a short bar or chain for securing prisoners, etc

Other Word Forms

• unhandcuff verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of handcuff

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + cuff ¹

Example Sentences

“I’ve watched my son walk out the front door in handcuffs over 40 times. Treatment is not a bad word.”

From Los Angeles Times

It is unlikely Andrew would have been deemed a risk to the arresting officers or himself, or that he would try to escape, so he probably would have been spared handcuffs.

From BBC

Police are not yet officially naming Bellarmine Mugabe as one of those arrested, but reporters at the scene saw him in handcuffs and he has been widely named by local media.

From BBC

Video from the scene shows Bronstein arguing with the officers while handcuffed and on his knees.

From Los Angeles Times

"The previous programmes made about Lucy, including Panorama and the almost nightly news showing her being brought out handcuffed in a blue tracksuit are heartbreaking for us," they said.

From Barron's

Related Words

• bind
• frustrate
• hamper
• hamstring