handcuffs

Noun

shackle that consists of a metal loop that can be locked around the wrist; usually used in pairs
A fastening consisting of two metal rings, designed to go around a person's wrists, and connected by a chain or hinge.
Any abstract constraint, such as rules, regulations, or lack of resources.
plural of handcuff

Verb

confine or restrain with or as if with manacles or handcuffs
third-person singular simple present indicative of handcuff

Examples

"They complained that their rules of engagement were handcuffs that guaranteed counterproductivity."

Origin / Etymology

1775, from hand + cuff (“end of shirtsleeve”).
Possibly influenced by Old English handcops, from hand + cops (“fetter, chains”), but due to lack of continuity (centuries between Old English and modern term), generally analyzed as a re-invention.

Synonyms

cuff, handcuff, handlock, manacle, manacles, shackles

Scrabble Score: 21

handcuffs is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
handcuffs is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
handcuffs is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 23

handcuffs is a valid Words With Friends word