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Showing results for millstone.
Definitions

millstone

[mil-stohn] / ˈmɪlˌstoʊn /
NOUN
heavy mental or emotional burden
Synonyms
STRONGEST
burden
STRONG
accountability affliction albatross anxiety blame charge concern cross difficulty encumbrance grievance hardship hindrance load misfortune onus punishment responsibility strain stress task trial trouble worry
WEAK
deadweight mental weight thorn in one's side
Antonyms
STRONG
advantage aid assistance benefit blessing calmness contentment ease encouragement exculpation exoneration happiness health help peace praise tranquility

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.

If he did so, his quotes against divorce would be an online millstone around his neck.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2025

“As the only sector to record a negative return in Q3, staples was the proverbial millstone around quality’s neck.”

From Barron's • Oct. 27, 2025

Sir Chris also said the claims by government that they were "following the science" became a "millstone around our necks".

From BBC • Nov. 21, 2023

The play’s conceit feels like a millstone around its neck, a catchy hook that quickly begins to feel like an obligation.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 12, 2023

“You’d be free of this millstone around your neck and ahead four hundred bucks to boot.”

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson