Definition

A device or constraint that restricts movement or freedom; a net or snare used in fishing. It can also mean to hinder or impede progress.

Example Usage

The bureaucratic processes served as a trammel on the company's innovation efforts.

Origin

From Old French 'tramail,' derived from Latin 'tres' (three) and 'macula' (mesh), originally referring to a three-layered fishing net.

Fun Fact

In classical mythology, Vulcan used trammels to trap Mars and Venus together.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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