handcuff

[hand-kuhf]

noun

1. a ring-shaped metal device that can be locked around a person's wrist, usually one of a pair connected by a short chain or linked bar; shackle.

   The police put handcuffs on the suspect.

verb (used with object)

1. to put handcuffs on.

2. to restrain or thwart (someone) by or as if by handcuffing.

   The amendments handcuffed the committee and prevented further action.

handcuff

/ ˈhændˌkʌf /

verb

1. (tr) to put handcuffs on (a person); manacle

noun

1. (plural) a pair of locking metal rings joined by a short bar or chain for securing prisoners, etc

Other Word Forms

• unhandcuff verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of handcuff¹

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + cuff ¹

Example Sentences

At the end of Thursday's hearing, Lavery was taken away in handcuffs.

From BBC

Sativa says he was handcuffed, blindfolded and brutally beaten, including being struck repeatedly on his head, back and legs with the flat side of a machete.

From BBC

Recordings by witnesses showed officers dragging Martinez out of her car by her legs and arms before placing her on the ground and handcuffing her.

From Los Angeles Times

Sadly enough, television images of chainsaws, handcuffed migrants and ICE raids don’t simply speak for themselves in the United States of 2025.

From Salon

Michael told her he was not being given pain medication and one night was handcuffed through the night in a way that he couldn't sleep facedown as required after his surgery.

From BBC

Related Words

• bind 
• frustrate 
• hamper 
• hamstring