handcuff

[hand-kuhf]

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.

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

/ ˈhændˌkʌf /

verb

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

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)

Word History and Origins

Origin of handcuff¹

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + cuff ¹

Example Sentences

In another clip, federal agents detained an elderly man sitting on the sidewalk near a liquor store, “making sure to put a handcuff on his hand as they helped him up.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The footage doesn’t show him being arrested, but two witnesses told the outlet that they saw agents handcuff Ventura Aguilar and place him in a van.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“But—handcuffs, dear me! It must have been awful!”

Read more on Literature

Videos on social media showed federal authorities in Charlotte handcuffing people and leading them into cars.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“Such as witnessing a parent being handcuffed,” the institute says.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• bind 
• frustrate 
• hamper 
• hamstring