shack·le / ˈshakəl/ • n. 1. (shackles) a pair of fetters connected together by a chain, used to fasten a prisoner's wrists or ankles together. ∎ fig. used in reference to something that restrains or impedes: society is going to throw off the shackles of racism and colonialism.2. a metal link, typically U-shaped, closed by a bolt, used to secure a chain or rope to something. ∎  a pivoted link connecting a spring in a vehicle's suspension to the body of the vehicle.• v. [tr.] chain with shackles. ∎ fig. restrain; limit: they seek to shackle the oil and gas companies by imposing new controls.

shackle sb. fetter OE.; transf. uses from XIV. OE. sċ(e)acul, corr. to LG. schäkel link of a chain, hobble, Du. schakel, ON. skǫkull wagon-pole, f. Gmc. *skak-; see -LE1.
Hence vb. XV.