Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a millstone around one's neck

idiom

/ə ˈmɪlstoʊn əˈraʊnd wʌnz nɛk/

Definition

A heavy burden or problem that weighs someone down, making it difficult to succeed.

Examples

He felt like the debt was a millstone around his neck, preventing him from enjoying life.
Her procrastination became a millstone around her neck as deadlines approached.

Meaning

This phrase is used to describe a situation or responsibility that causes significant stress or hindrance, similar to the way a millstone (a large stone used in milling grain) would be an encumbrance if worn around one’s neck.