chain
//ˈt͡ʃeɪn//
Forms
- Plural
- chains
- present (v1)
- chain
- past (v2)
- chained
- past participle (v3)
- chained
- present participle
- chaining
- 3rd person singular
- chains
Definitions
1.A series of interconnected rings or links usually made of metal.
- He wore a gold chain around the neck.
- The anchor is connected to the boat with a 100-metre long chain.
2.A series of interconnected things.
- This led to an unfortunate chain of events.
3.A series of stores or businesses with the same brand name.
- That chain of restaurants is expanding into our town.
4.A number of atoms in a series, which combine to form a molecule.
- When examined, the molecular chain included oxygen and hydrogen.
1.To link multiple items together.
2.To secure someone with fetters.
3.To fasten something with a chain.
- You should chain your bicycle to the railings to protect it from being stolen.
4.To connect as if with a chain, due to dependence, addiction, or other feelings
- Sometimes I feel like I'm chained to this computer.
- She's been chained to her principles since she was 18, it's unlikely you can convince her otherwise.
Frequency
Overall
Uncommon· #2053
By learning goal
- Everyday conversation
- Rare
- General reading & writing
- Uncommon
- Academic
- Rare
- Literature
- Rare
Etymology
From Middle English cheyne, chaine, from Old French chaine, chaene (“chain”), from Latin catēna (“chain”), from Proto-Indo-European *kat- (“to braid, twist; hut, shed”).
Doublet of catena.