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.
Inmates are sentenced to time behind bars, not forced labor, a vestige of chain gangs and slavery. George Skelton, Los Angeles Times, 31 Oct. 2024 In a chain gang sequence, Robeson is shot from low angle, full frame, head-to-toe, bare-chested, in striped pants, in leg irons, hammering rocks with a sledgehammer, radiating an energy that cannot be shackled. Thomas Doherty, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Oct. 2024 The league likes the drama of a chain gang stretching to measure for that first down. Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2023 Jim Harbaugh meanwhile was on the sidelines at a youth football game in the chain gang. Jared Ramsey, Detroit Free Press, 9 Sep. 2023 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

Dictionary Entries Near chain gang

Cite this Entry

“Chain gang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chain%20gang. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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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