1. putting chains or shackles on; binding with fetters
Usage: archaic; literary
2. restricting or constraining someone’s freedom or actions
Usage: figurative; literary

Examples

• The guards were enfettering the prisoners before transport.
• Medieval dungeons were designed for enfettering captives.
• The oppressive laws were enfettering the citizens’ basic rights.
• She felt the tradition was enfettering her creative expression.
• The contract’s terms were enfettering the company’s growth potential.