shack·le (sh k  l)n. 1. A metal fastening, usually one of a pair, for encircling and confining the ankle or wrist of a prisoner or captive; a fetter or manacle. 2. A hobble for an animal. 3. Any of several devices, such as a clevis, used to fasten or couple. 4. A restraint or check to action or progress. Often used in the plural: economic shackles that precluded further investment. tr.v. shack·led, shack·ling, shack·les 1. To confine with shackles; fetter. 2. To fasten or connect with a shackle. 3. To restrict, confine, or hamper. See Synonyms at hamper1. [Middle English schackel, from Old English sceacel, fetter.] shack ler n. |   left to right: spin and anchor shackles |
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