noun Uncommon

handcuffs

Handcuffs (noun) means a pair of metal restraints joined together, locked around a person's wrists. Example: “The suspect was led away in handcuffs.”

noun

A pair of metal restraints joined together, locked around a person's wrists.

"The suspect was led away in handcuffs."

Any restriction that severely limits someone's freedom of action.

"The new rules put handcuffs on what regulators could actually do."

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The suspect was led away in _____.

Etymology

From hand + cuff, first recorded in this form around 1775.

· First attested 1775

Class of 1775 handcuffs joined the language around 1775.

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Synonyms

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manacles shackles

Related Words

bonds

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “handcuffs” mean?

The word “handcuffs” means a pair of metal restraints joined together, locked around a person's wrists.

How do you use “handcuffs” in a sentence?

Here is “handcuffs” used in a sentence: “The suspect was led away in handcuffs.”

What is another word for “handcuffs”?

Words with a similar meaning to “handcuffs” include manacles and shackles.

What part of speech is “handcuffs”?

“Handcuffs” is a noun.

Where does the word “handcuffs” come from?

The word “handcuffs” dates back to around 1775. From hand + cuff, first recorded in this form around 1775.

Is “handcuffs” a common word?

“Handcuffs” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “handcuffs” have?

“Handcuffs” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a pair of metal restraints joined together, locked around a person's wrists.

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