chain
 chain (chān) left to right: figaro, sash, and stud linksClarinda/Academy Artworksn.
1.
a. A connected, flexible series of links, typically of metal, used especially for holding objects together or restraining or for transmitting mechanical power.
b. Such a set of links, often of precious metal and with pendants attached, worn as an ornament or symbol of office.
2. A restraining or confining agent or force.
3. chains
a. Bonds, fetters, or shackles.
b. Captivity or oppression; bondage:
threw off the chains of slavery.
4. A series of closely linked or connected things:
a chain of coincidences.
See Synonyms at series.
5. A number of establishments, such as stores, theaters, or hotels, under common ownership or management.
6. A range of mountains.
7. Chemistry. A group of atoms bonded in a spatial configuration like links in a chain.
8.
a. An instrument used in surveying, consisting of 100 linked pieces of iron or steel and measuring 66 feet (20.1 meters). Also called Gunter's chain.
b. A similar instrument used in engineering, measuring 100 feet (30.5 meters).
c. Abbr. ch A unit of measurement equal to the length of either of these instruments.tr.v. chained, chain·ing, chains
1. To bind or make fast with a chain or chains:
chained the dog to a tree.
2. To restrain or confine as if with chains:
workers who were chained to a life of dull routine.Idiom:pull/yank (someone's) chain
To take unfair advantage of someone; deceive or manipulate someone. [Middle English chaine, from Old French, from Latin catēna.]
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