a series of connected metal rings, used for pulling or fastening things; a length of chain used for a particular purpose

1 [countable, uncountable] a series of connected metal rings, used for pulling or fastening things; a length of chain used for a particular purpose a short ...

1 to fasten something with a chain; to fasten someone or something to another person or thing with a chain, so that they do not escape or get stolen chain ...

to fasten something with a chain; to fasten somebody/something to another person or thing with a chain, so that they do not escape or get stolen.

There are 32 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun chain, two of which are labelled obsolete. See 'Meaning & use' for definitions, usage, and quotation ...

There are 11 meanings listed in OED's entry for the verb chain, one of which is labelled obsolete. See 'Meaning & use' for definitions, usage, and quotation ...

​(informal) a system or structure in which the people or organizations that are part of it are seen as having different levels of importance, success, etc.

the series of processes involved in the production and supply of goods, from when they are first made, grown, etc. until they are bought or used.

the series of processes involved in the production and supply of goods, from when they are first made, grown, etc. until they are bought or used.

A series of linked metal rings for fastening or securing something. From the later sense of a jointed measuring line consisting of linked metal rods, chain ...