Handcuff/ˈhændkʌf/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Law Enforcement Used by police or security to restrain a person's hands. During the arrest, the officer secured the suspect with handcuffs. Pro Tip 2/3Physical Restraint Implies limited movement and control, often enforced to prevent escape. The handcuffs kept the prisoners from using their hands. Pro Tip 3/3Safety Measure Used for safety to stop individuals from harming themselves or others. The unruly detainee was handcuffed for everyone's safety.