chains

[tʃeɪnz]

chains Definition

  • 1a series of metal links or rings connected to each other, used for supporting heavy weights or restricting the movement of prisoners
  • 2a set of objects linked together in a line

Using chains: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "chains" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The prisoner was bound in chains.

  • Example

    The ship's anchor was secured by chains.

  • Example

    The bicycle was stolen because it wasn't locked with chains.

  • Example

    The dog was tied up with chains.

chains Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chains

  • bonds
  • fetters
  • shackles
  • manacles
  • restraints

Antonyms for chains

Idioms Using chains

  • pulling someone's chain

    teasing or joking with someone

    Example

    I'm just pulling your chain. I didn't really eat your sandwich.

  • yanking someone's chain

    teasing or annoying someone

    Example

    Stop yanking my chain! I know you're lying to me.

  • working with a group of people who are chained together, often as a form of punishment

    Example

    He was sent to work in the chain gang after being convicted of a crime.

Phrases with chains

  • ball and chain

    a heavy metal ball secured to a prisoner's leg by a chain, used to prevent escape or as a form of punishment

    Example

    He felt like his wife was a ball and chain, always holding him back from doing what he wanted.

  • a series of events, each caused by the previous one

    Example

    The accident on the highway caused a chain reaction of crashes.

  • the hierarchical series of organisms each dependent on the next as a source of food

    Example

    The lion is at the top of the food chain in the African savanna.

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Summary: chains in Brief

The term 'chains' [tʃeɪnz] refers to a series of metal links or rings connected to each other, used for supporting heavy weights or restricting the movement of prisoners. It also refers to a set of objects linked together in a line. 'Chains' extends into phrases like 'ball and chain,' denoting something that holds someone back, and idioms like 'pulling someone's chain,' meaning teasing or joking with someone.