chain

[tʃeɪn]
n
a flexible length of metal links, used for confining, connecting, pulling, etc, or in jewellery
anything that confines, fetters, or restrains
the chains of poverty
Also called: snow chains a set of metal links that fit over the tyre of a motor vehicle to increase traction and reduce skidding on an icy surface
a number of establishments such as hotels, shops, etc, having the same owner or management.(as modifier)
a series of related or connected facts, events, etc
a series of deals in which each depends on a purchaser selling before being able to buy
(of reasoning) a sequence of arguments each of which takes the conclusion of the preceding as a premiseSee (as an example) sorites
Also called: Gunter's chain a unit of length equal to 22 yards
Also called: engineer's chain a unit of length equal to 100 feet
two or more atoms or groups bonded together so that the configuration of the resulting molecule, ion, or radical resembles a chainSee open chain See ring
a series of natural features, esp approximately parallel mountain ranges
vb
to measure with a chain or tape
to confine, tie, or make fast with or as if with a chain
short for chain stitch
- 习惯用语
- off the chain free from responsibility
- jerk someone's chain to tease, mislead, or harass someone
- yank someone's chain 同