Phrase guide

bind hand and foot

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To tie up (someone’s) hands and feet.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • My kidnappers had bound me hand and foot so any attempt at escaping was of no avail.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To prevent (someone) from doing what they wish, to firmly constrain.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: figuratively, transitive

Examples

  • bound hand and foot

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: tie hand and foot

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

3 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: kahlita — Translations
  • Finnish: sitoa — Translations
  • Spanish: atar de pies y manos — Translations