ball and chain
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
High prices have hobbled Americans with a ball and chain.
From MarketWatch • Dec. 15, 2025
As time went on, Veasley said her pain became like a ball and chain that got heavier and heavier.
From Salon • Oct. 9, 2023
Dominic Santana, who showed up in the jailhouse uniform complete with handcuffs and a plastic ball and chain, said he “wanted to join the circus.”
From Washington Times • Jun. 13, 2023
Each custom bottle label sported a picture of a cabbage chained to a foot, like a ball and chain, and the words “Brine & Punishment,” a reference to Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment.”
From New York Times • Sep. 22, 2022
George Atzerodt goes meekly into custody and is soon fitted with wrist shackles, and a ball and chain on his ankle.
From "Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever" by Bill O'Reilly
