Definition of "handcuff" []

• A restraining device consisting of a pair of strong, connected hoops that can be tightened and locked about the wrists and used on one or both arms of a prisoner in custody; a manacle. Often used in the plural. (noun)
• To restrain with or as if with handcuffs. (verb-transitive)
• To render ineffective or impotent. See Synonyms at hamper1. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "For many with talent the only remaining golden handcuff is health care."
• "And yet you, Mr. President, more than a half-century later, authorized subjecting prisoners to this technique for up to 72 hours, or 40 hours if combined with standing in handcuff restraints."
• "The actual authority to handcuff is cited within the opinion."