A weapon of Okinawan origin most commonly consisting of two short cylindrical pieces of wood connected by a short length of chain or rope.
In the right hands, these can be effective weapons, however more often than not they are more of a danger to the wielder than anybody else. Even so, owning this weapon is strictly controlled or prohibited in many countries.
To quote a black belt I know; Nunchaku are a weapon designed by an idiot for use by a moron