STRAIGHT JACKET Meaning and
Definition
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The term "straight jacket" refers to a restraining garment, typically made of heavy canvas or sturdy material, designed to immobilize a person's arms and torso. Its primary purpose is to restrict the movement of an individual who may pose a danger to themselves or others due to mental instability, aggression, or self-harm tendencies. The straight jacket is characterized by its close-fitting, jacket-like appearance with long sleeves that cross over the chest and attach at the back.
The main objective of a straight jacket is to prevent the wearer from freely moving their limbs, thus minimizing the risk of physical harm or escape. The garment is securely fastened with numerous straps, buckles, or ties, creating a snug and restrictive fit. This restrictiveness can limit the wearer's ability to engage in self-harm, aggression, or dangerous behavior, maintaining a level of safety for both the individual and their surroundings.
Primarily used in psychiatric institutions, forensic settings, or during transport of mentally unstable patients, the straight jacket serves as a last resort measure for extreme cases where alternative methods of control have proven ineffective or insufficient. Its use is constrained due to ethical concerns regarding human rights and dignity.
Although effective in restricting movement, the term "straight jacket" is sometimes used metaphorically to depict a state of confinement, restriction, or limitation in various aspects of life, such as being trapped in a certain position or unable to escape a difficult situation.
Common Misspellings for STRAIGHT JACKET
Etymology of STRAIGHT JACKET
The word "straightjacket" is derived from the term "straitjacket", with "strait" meaning narrow or confined. The term originated in the late 18th century from the combination of the adjective "strait" (from Old French "estreit", meaning narrow or tight) and "jacket". It refers to a type of garment used in psychiatric institutions to restrain and immobilize individuals with mental illnesses. Over time, the spelling has evolved to "straightjacket", though the modern term "straitjacket" is still widely used.
Similar spelling words for STRAIGHT JACKET
- straight arch,
- straightarrow,
- straight pin,
- straightaway,
- straight sinus,
- straight off,
- straight flute,
- straight line,
- straighten up,
- straight arrow,
- straight face,
- straightforwardly,
- straight shooter,
- straight-laced,
- straight man,
- straightforward,
- straightedge,
- straight-backed,
- straight poker,
- straightlaced,
- straightjacket,
- straight chain,
- straight chair,
- straight angle,
- straight ticket,
- straight razor,
- straightener,
- straightness,
- straight flush,
- straight person,
- straight-out,
- straight hang,
- straight-arm,
- straighten out.
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