ball and chain

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ball and chain

n
1. (formerly) a heavy iron ball attached to a chain and fastened to a prisoner
2. a heavy restraint
3. slang a wife
Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

ball′ and chain′


n.
1. a heavy iron ball fastened by a chain to a prisoner's leg.
2. Slang: Disparaging and Offensive. a wife.
usage: Definition 2 is used with disparaging intent and is perceived as insulting. It implies that the woman is domineering.
Random House Kernerman Webster's College Dictionary, © 2010 K Dictionaries Ltd. Copyright 2005, 1997, 1991 by Random House, Inc. All rights reserved.
ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend:
Noun1.ball and chain - heavy iron ball attached to a prisoner by a chainball and chain - heavy iron ball attached to a prisoner by a chain
hamper, shackle, trammel, bond - a restraint that confines or restricts freedom (especially something used to tie down or restrain a prisoner)
Based on WordNet 3.0, Farlex clipart collection. © 2003-2012 Princeton University, Farlex Inc.
References in periodicals archive
Now guests at the wedding, which will take place at Ms Braithwaite's family home at Haughton Castle, will raise a glass of Ball and Chain Ale.
Mr Arkell, head brewer for the family firm, said: "I'm hoping Ball and Chain will become fundamental to a truly contented married life for us both." The couple are planning to transport a bar - complete with Ball and Chain hand pump clips featuring images of the couple - from Swindon to Northumberland for the wedding.
Ball and chain ale to mark big day
AGROOM set to marry a Northumberland woman will mark the special day by raising a glass of his own beer - named Ball and Chain Ale.
I brew! - new ale to mark wedding; Couple's big day prompts beer creation
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