Street
chain
What does chain mean?
A busload or transfer of prisoners moved together in chains; to 'catch the chain' is to be transported. Also 'chain gang' historically for shackled work crews.
"He caught the chain to the new prison at 4 a.m."
Origin
From the chains binding transported prisoners.
Frequently asked questions
What is the chain in prison?
The chain is a group transport of shackled inmates moved together between facilities. To 'catch the chain' means to be transported.
How is chain used?
An inmate might say he 'caught the chain to the new prison at 4 a.m.,' meaning he was loaded onto the transfer transport that morning.
Is chain related to chain gang?
Yes. The word comes from the chains binding transported prisoners, and 'chain gang' historically referred to shackled work crews.
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