Definitions for ball and chain
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Random House Webster's College Dictionary
ball′ and chain′*(n.)
a heavy iron ball fastened by a chain to a prisoner's leg.
Slang: Disparaging and Offensive.a wife.
Category: Status (usage)
* Usage: Definition 2 is used with disparaging intent and is perceived as insulting. It implies that the woman is domineering.
Princeton's WordNet
ball and chain(noun)
heavy iron ball attached to a prisoner by a chain
Wiktionary
ball and chain(Noun)
A heavy iron ball attached to a prisoner's leg by a chain as a means of restraint.
ball and chain(Noun)
One's wife, as a symbol of restraint.
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