Chain

A chain is like a rope, but made up of several elements called links.

A chain (unit) is also a measure of length
A human chain can be made by people standing next to one another and who hold hands or link arms. It is a chain that has people for its links.
Chain store, retail stores which share a brand and central management, usually with standardized business methods and practices. They may all have the same owners or may be franchised.