die Handschelle
handcuff
A pair of connected metal rings used by the police to restrain a person's wrists. Usually used in the plural.
EXAMPLE
Der Polizist legte dem Dieb die Handschellen an.
The police officer put the handcuffs on the thief.
die Handschelle
handcuff
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of 'Hand' (hand) and 'Schelle' (shackle/clamp). 'Schelle' is an old word for a ring or clamp. A 'Handschelle' (handcuff) is therefore literally a restraining ring for the hands.
EXAMPLE
Die Handschellen sind aus stabilem Metall gefertigt.
The handcuffs are made of strong metal.
Use in the plural
Although the singular form 'die Handschelle' (the handcuff) exists, the word is almost always used in the plural 'die Handschellen' (the handcuffs). This is because they consist of a pair of two connected rings.
EXAMPLE
Der Verdächtige trug Handschellen, als er aus dem Polizeiauto stieg.
The suspect was wearing handcuffs when he got out of the police car.
Typical verbs
The most common verbs used in connection with handcuffs are 'anlegen' (to put on) and 'abführen' (to lead away/take away). The police 'legen' einem Verdächtigen Handschellen 'an' (put handcuffs on a suspect) and then 'führen' ihn 'ab' (take him away).
EXAMPLE
Dem Einbrecher wurden sofort Handschellen angelegt.
Handcuffs were put on the burglar immediately.
In real life
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