chain gang

noun

plural chain gangs
: a group of people (such as convicts) chained together especially as an outside working party

Examples of chain gang in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The chain gang will still be on the field as a backup option, but the archaic measuring system will no longer be the primary way to determine a first down or not on close plays. Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2025 The chain gang will remain on sidelines as a backup. David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 2025 This could mean that the league is assuming there could be some issues with the digital measurements and the chain gang will remain on the field in case they are called in. David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 2025 The chain gang, which has been used for practically the entire lifetime of football, will still be on the sidelines, but will be used as a secondary method to determine the distance. Jane Onyanga-Omara, USA TODAY, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for chain gang

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chain gang was in 1813

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Cite this Entry

“Chain gang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chain%20gang. Accessed 11 Apr. 2025.

Legal Definition

chain gang

noun
: a group of convicts chained together especially to work outside a prison
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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