What does "shackles" mean? Is it a figurative expression?

Rebecca

Here it is figurative, yes! In the literal sense, "shackles" is a chain with handcuffs used to fasten a prisoner. Metaphorically, it could be rules and regulations on someone or someone's own troubles and emotions that they are "shackled" to. Ex: I was finally able to let go of my shackles and move on with my life after my breakup. Ex: The shackles prisoners had in the past seemed like they really hurt.