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Added 9 October 2026

chain

/ˈt͡ʃeɪn/ noun

In Latin: catēna, vinculum Wiktionary

noun Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about chain at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

A series of things depending on each other as if linked together.
the chain of command
(chemistry) a series of linked atoms (generally in an organic molecule).
A series of (usually metal) rings or links fitted into one another to make a flexible ligament.

verb

Connect or arrange into a chain by linking.
Fasten or secure with chains.
Chain the chairs together

Origin

From Middle English cheyne, chaine, from Old French chaeine, chaene (“chain”), from Latin catēna (“chain”), from Proto-Indo-European *kat- (“to braid, twist; hut, shed”). Doublet of catena. Displaced native Middle English rakil and rakent (from Old English racente (“chain”)); see rackan.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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