handcuff
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈhændˌkʌf/
KK: /ˈhændˌkʌf/
noun
Definition
A device made of two metal rings that are connected and can be locked around a person's wrists to keep them restrained, often used by police on arrested individuals.
Example
The police officer put handcuffs on the suspect to prevent him from escaping.
Conversation
Did you see that movie where the detective used handcuffs to catch the criminal?
Yeah, it was so intense! I couldn't believe how quickly they worked.
I wonder if real police use handcuffs that easily in real life.
They probably do, but I bet it's not always that dramatic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
manacle
shackle
cuff
Antonyms
release
freedom
liberation
transitive verb
Definition
To restrain someone's hands by fastening them with metal cuffs, usually for security or law enforcement purposes.
Example
The police officer had to handcuff the suspect before taking him to the station.
Tense Forms
Past: handcuffed
Past Participle: handcuffed
Conversation
Did you hear about the new security measures at the mall?
Yeah, they say they might handcuff anyone who causes trouble.
That's kind of extreme, don't you think?
Root Explanation
Handcuff → It is formed from "hand" (from Old English "hand", meaning the part of the body at the end of the arm) and "cuff" (from Middle English "cuffe", meaning a band or strap). The word "handcuff" refers to a strap or band that secures a person's hands together.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'hand' being secured by a 'band' or 'strap' — that's what a handcuff does.
Visually Confused Words
unhandcuff
unhandcuffed