Definition

To bind or restrain someone with chains or shackles, limiting their freedom of movement.

Example

The cruel king sought to enfetter his enemies to prevent them from escaping.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I feel like sometimes we enfetter ourselves with too many commitments.

That's true, it can be hard to say no sometimes.

Yeah, we should focus on what really matters instead.

Exactly! Freedom is important for our happiness.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Enfetter → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be in) and "fetter" (from Old English *fetter*, meaning a chain or shackle). The word "enfetter" means to cause someone to be in chains or shackles, thus restricting their freedom.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'caused to be in' ('en-') 'chains' ('fetter') — that's why enfetter means to bind someone in chains.

Visually Confused Words