#34: Handcuff

The marriage institution has always had a somewhat bad reputation. To this day, people still refer to their spouse as “the old ball and chain,” meaning they are locked. In the past, the term ‘handcuff’ was slang used to refer to getting married. Originating in American English during the early to mid-20th century, ‘handcuff’ captured the notion of being bound or restricted by the commitment of marriage.

The term likely derived from the imagery of handcuffs, which restrain individuals, implying a loss of freedom or autonomy upon entering matrimony. Whether used humorously or with a sense of resignation, ‘handcuff’ conveyed the idea of entering into a permanent or long-term relationship, often characterized by obligations and responsibilities. We’re honestly not sure which is worse.