The phrase "puts in irons" is a maritime term meaning to secure a ship's movement by attaching heavy chains called iron shackles to the prisoner or crew member's ankles or wrists. This phrase is pronounced /pʊts ɪn 'aɪrənz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial 'p' is pronounced as in "pit," and the 'u' sound is like "put." The 'ts' sound is as in "cats," and 'ɪn' sounds like "in." The word "irons" is pronounced as /'aɪrənz/ with an 'aɪ' vowel, and the final 's' is silent.
The phrase "puts in irons" refers to a nautical term that describes the act of restraining or confining a ship through the use of iron chains or shackles. This action involves the process of placing the ship's rudder or steering mechanism in a fixed position to prevent maneuverability, rendering the vessel unable to change its course or direction.
Generally, the purpose of putting a ship in irons is to maintain control over the vessel in certain situations, such as during storms, when the wind and waves are too intense to handle. By immobilizing the rudder, the ship can be prevented from veering off course, reducing the risk of damage or capsizing.
The phrase "puts in irons" can also be used figuratively to describe situations where someone or something is restrained, confined, or controlled. It implies a restriction of freedom or movement, often in an oppressive or authoritative manner. This expression can be applied in various contexts, such as describing the imprisonment of an individual, the enforced limitations on someone's actions, or even the restriction of a nation's sovereignty.
Overall, "puts in irons" signifies the act of restricting a ship's maneuverability by immobilizing its rudder or steering mechanism, either literally or figuratively, to maintain control or limit freedom of movement.