millstone

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.

But climates shift, and while “invented heritage” can act as a powerful anchor, it can also be a millstone, an obstacle to necessary, large-scale changes.

From Salon • Jan. 3, 2026

“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

Jayne is one of an estimated one in 20 people in the UK thought to have a hoarding disorder, and is trying a new technique to release the "millstone" around her neck.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2025

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

“I’m tired of this town. Do you know what it’s like? To have his name? To wear that millstone around your neck? The stares and whispers? The weight of this blood?”

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner