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

yank someone's chain, pull out all the stops, break the chain

ball and chain, chain reaction, supply chain

Formal and Informal Expressions of chain

In different contexts, you can replace 'chain' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'link, fetter, bond' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'tie, connect' is a commonplace synonym.

chain: Explore its Definition & Usage

chain Definition

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

Antonyms for chain

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.