PUT IN IRONS Meaning and
Definition
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"Put in irons" is a nautical term referring to the act of restraining or confining someone aboard a ship by placing them in a pair of metal restraints known as irons. These irons are typically shackles or handcuffs made of iron or steel, which are secured around a person's wrists or ankles.
The phrase has historical origins in maritime practices, particularly during the era of sailing ships. It was commonly employed as a disciplinary measure for unruly or mutinous sailors. When a crew member violated the ship's rules or regulations, the captain or ship's officers would impose punishment by ordering the individual to be put in irons. By immobilizing the offender, this action served as both a deterrent for others and as a means to ensure the safety and order of the ship.
Being put in irons would lead to severe restrictions of movement for the individual, hampering their ability to perform regular tasks and impeding their freedom. This punishment was seen as a significant loss of personal liberty and often carried a sense of public humiliation, as the restrained individual would be visibly marked by the conspicuous presence of the irons.
While the phrase originated in maritime jargon, it has also become figurative in modern language. It is now often used metaphorically to describe situations where someone is severely restricted or hindered in their actions or abilities, beyond the literal interpretation of physical restraints.
Common Misspellings for PUT IN IRONS
- out in irons
- lut in irons
- -ut in irons
- 0ut in irons
- pyt in irons
- pht in irons
- pjt in irons
- pit in irons
- p8t in irons
- p7t in irons
- pur in irons
- puf in irons
- pug in irons
- puy in irons
- pu6 in irons
- pu5 in irons
- put un irons
- put jn irons
- put kn irons
- put on irons
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