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
R.E.M. called irony “the shackles of youth,” and he drags it around like a Styrofoam ball and chain.
From New York Times • Apr. 17, 2019
He was dressed like an old-time prisoner, complete with a ball and chain around one foot.
From "Bone Gap" by Laura Ruby
