Dictionary entry

Chain (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Chain, v. t. [imp. p. p.Chained (chānd); p. pr. & vb. n.Chaining.] 1. To fasten, bind, or connect with a chain; to fasten or bind securely, as with a chain; as, to chain a bulldog.

Chained behind the hostile car.

Prior.

2. To keep in slavery; to enslave.

And which more blest? who chained his country, say

Or he whose virtue sighed to lose a day?

Pope.

3. To unite closely and strongly.

And in this vow do chain my soul to thine.

Shak.

4. (Surveying) To measure with the chain.

5. To protect by drawing a chain across, as a harbor.