Millstone

/ˈmɪlstoʊn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A heavy round stone used in the process of grinding grain.

The farmer took his grain to the mill where the millstone was used to grind it into flour.

A burden or heavy responsibility that is difficult to bear.

The debt became a millstone around his neck, making it hard to pursue his dreams.

A metaphorical reference to an impediment or obstacle.

Her unresolved past acted as a millstone, preventing her from moving forward in life.

Middle English, from Old English mylenstān.

millstone around one's neck

A heavy burden or problem that is difficult to remove or escape.

grind

To reduce to small pieces by crushing.

mill

A building equipped with machinery for grinding grain into flour.

A heavy burden or responsibility.

Dealing with his overbearing boss felt like a millstone.

An obstacle or hindrance.

Her past mistakes were like a millstone to her career.