chain

[tʃeɪn]

chain Definition

• 1. a series of connected metal rings or links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or lifting heavy loads
• 2. a sequence of stores, hotels, or restaurants owned by the same company
• 3. a group of establishments such as hotels, stores, or restaurants owned by the same company

Using chain: Examples

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

• Example

  The bike was secured with a chain.

• Example

  The prisoner was in chains.

• Example

  The hotel chain has locations all over the world.

• Example

  The restaurant chain is known for its fast food.

• Example

  The store chain offers a variety of products.

chain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for chain

• fetter
• bond
• shackle
• tie
• link

Antonyms for chain

• unfasten
• loose

Idioms Using chain

• yank someone's chain

  to tease or fool someone

  Example

  Don't take him seriously, he's just yanking your chain.

• pull out all the stops

  to do everything possible to achieve a goal

  Example

  We need to pull out all the stops to finish this project on time.

• break the chain

  to stop a negative pattern or habit

  Example

  She decided to break the chain of unhealthy eating habits.

Phrases with chain

• ball and chain

  a heavy metal ball secured to a prisoner's leg by a chain, used to prevent escape

  Example

  He felt like he was carrying a ball and chain after getting married.

• chain reaction

  a series of events, each caused by the previous one

  Example

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

• supply chain

  the sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of a commodity

  Example

  The company is working to improve its supply chain to reduce costs.

Origins of chain

from Old English 'cǣġen', from Proto-Germanic 'kaikinō' meaning 'chain'

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Summary: chain in Brief

The term 'chain' [tʃeɪn] refers to a series of connected metal rings or links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or lifting heavy loads. It also denotes a sequence of stores, hotels, or restaurants owned by the same company, and a group of establishments such as hotels, stores, or restaurants owned by the same company. Phrases like 'ball and chain' and 'chain reaction' are commonly used, while idioms like 'yank someone's chain' and 'break the chain' are also prevalent.