hobble

/ˈhɒbəl/

IPA: /HH AA1 B AH0 L/

noun
  1. 1

    (chiefly in the plural) One of the short straps tied between the legs of unfenced horses, allowing them to wander short distances but preventing them from running off.

  2. 2

    An unsteady, off-balance step.

  3. 3

    A difficult situation; a scrape.

  4. 4

    An odd job; a piece of casual work.

Synonyms

verb
  1. 1

    To fetter by tying the legs; to restrict (a horse) with hobbles.

  2. 2

    To walk lame, or unevenly.

  3. 3

    To move roughly or irregularly.

  4. 4

    To perplex; to embarrass.

Source: https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/hobble