Fetter - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A fetter is a chain or shackle used to restrain someone’s feet, limiting movement. Figuratively, it refers to anything that restricts freedom or progress, such as rules or obligations.
Definition:
A chain or shackle for the feet; something that restricts freedom.
Synonyms:
shackle, chain, restraint, bond
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
free, liberate
Common Collocations:
break the fetters, mental fetters, fetter someone’s movements
Derivatives:
fettered, fettering
Usage Tips:
Use "fetter" metaphorically for restrictions or literally for physical restraints.
Common Phrases:
in fetters, cast off the fetters, fetter of tradition
Etymology:
From Old English "feter," related to "foot," meaning a chain for the feet.
Examples:
- 1. The prisoner wore iron fetters on his ankles.
- 2. Tradition can sometimes fetter progress and innovation.
- 3. She felt fettered by her strict upbringing.
- 4. The law should not fetter individual freedoms unnecessarily.