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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

The growth of shorter formats, and especially T20, has played a part and for some national boards Test cricket is seen as a financial millstone amid poor attendances and declining interest.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 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

Spassky’s defense of his title became, symbolically, a defense of the Soviet Union, and the Russian’s millstone was a heavy weight to bear.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady