handcuff

[ hand-kuhf ]
/ ˈhændˌkʌf /

noun

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)

to put handcuffs on.
to restrain or thwart (someone) by or as if by handcuffing: The amendments handcuffed the committee and prevented further action.

Origin of handcuff

First recorded in 1635–45; hand + cuff1

OTHER WORDS FROM handcuff

un·hand·cuff, verb (used with object)

Example sentences from the Web for handcuffs

British Dictionary definitions for handcuffs

handcuff
/ (ˈhændˌkʌf) /

verb

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

noun

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