1. Physical Restraint:
* Metal restraints: The most common meaning of "shackles" refers to metal restraints, usually for the ankles or wrists, used to bind a person's limbs. These are often associated with prisons, slavery, or torture.
* Figuratively: You can also use "shackles" metaphorically to describe anything that restricts freedom or movement, such as social norms, fear, or even self-doubt.
2. A Type of Chain:
* In some contexts, "shackles" can refer to a type of chain, particularly one used for fastening or connecting objects. This usage is less common in modern English but can be found in historical texts.
Examples:
* Physical: "The prisoners were forced to wear shackles on their feet."
* Figurative: "She felt shackled by her responsibilities."
* Chain: "The boat was secured to the dock with shackles."
To understand the precise meaning of "shackles" in a particular context, consider the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the text.