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

Let’s review it: The evidence is a promotional screenshot from the upcoming game Mario Tennis Aces, in which various characters, including Mario and Luigi, a ghost, and a ball and chain with teeth, play tennis.

From Slate • Mar. 16, 2018

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