shackled

VERB

restrain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bind confine cuff handcuff tie up

STRONG

chain fetter hog-tie hold manacle secure trammel

WEAK

hold captive put a straitjacket on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

free release

STRONG

let go loose loosen

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Allen appeared in court on Monday in an orange jumpsuit and was shackled at the wrists and feet, according to CBS News, the BBC's US partner.

From BBC • May 11, 2026

As I was being processed, shackled, and led into a cell, I wondered if I would be able to report to the outside world what it was like in there.

From Slate • Jan. 23, 2026

They arrived at Durban's international airport on Tuesday under heavy police guard, with their hands and feet shackled.

From BBC • Nov. 12, 2025

“I was a little shackled by the Japanese custom that you are only a mom if you go through natural birth, so I had my first child without an epidural,” Nishimura said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

At least he isn’t shackled under the stadium floor, Elisabet keeps saying, and I suppose even my broken heart can accept that as good fortune.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver