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.

Maduro, 63 years old, wore loose-fitting, tan jail garb and his legs were shackled.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

At a Juvenile Court hearing this week in East Lost Angeles, sheriff’s deputies led shackled defendants into a courtroom reserved for youths accused of serious crimes.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

He's not really known for his defending but I thought he shackled Harvey Barnes and put him in his back pocket.

From BBC • Jan. 26, 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

It is not an easy or pleasant task for men shackled together to use a sanitary bucket in a moving van.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela