# chained

/ˈtʃeɪnd/ (US) · /tʃˈeɪnd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chained
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. physically bound

adjective · CEFR B2

tied or fastened with a metal chain so that movement is limited.

For teachers: restrained or secured by means of a chain; typically implies a lack of freedom or fixed positioning.

- The old bicycle was chained to the fence to keep it safe.
- The gates remained chained throughout the winter, preventing any unauthorised vehicles from entering the private estate grounds.

### 2. linked in a series

adjective · CEFR B2

connected together in a row or a sequence, like links in a chain.

For teachers: connected or arranged in a series of linked items or events.

- The molecules were chained together to form a long plastic strand.
- The architect designed a series of chained courtyards, each leading naturally into the next to create a sense of continuous flow.

### 3. computing commands

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describes computer commands or tasks that happen one after another in a specific order.

For teachers: referring to a sequence of operations or functions where the output of one serves as the input for the next.

- The developer used chained functions to process the data more quickly.
- By using chained promises in the code, the application ensures that each asynchronous task completes before the next one begins.

Usage: Often used to describe 'chained methods' or 'chained calls' in programming languages like JavaScript or Python.

## Examples

- She felt chained to her desk all day.
- The new software update left users chained to the old interface for another month.
- Though physically free, he remained chained to the expectations of his family, unable to pursue the artistic career he had always dreamed of.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.