chain (someone or something) to (something)

chain (someone or something) to (something)

To fasten or anchor something in place with chains. While this phrase is used literally in reference to objects, it can also be humorously or hyperbolically applied to people. Chain your bike to the rack so that no one steals it while you're shopping. I'm going to chain you to your desk if you don't sit down and work on your book report!
See also: chain
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

chain something to something

to connect things together with chains. We chained all the bicycles to one another so no one could steal them. We will have to chain the lawn furniture to a tree if we leave it out while we are on vacation.
See also: chain
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • chain to
  • days are numbered, one's
  • (someone's or something's) days are numbered
  • as far as the eye can see
  • as far as the eye can/could see
  • beat off
  • curl up and die
  • be a fate worse than death
  • and his mother
  • forbid