How to Pronounce "ball and chain"
expression
BAWL-uhnd-CHAYN
BAWL-and-CHAYN
Definition
An old-fashioned slang term used to jokingly refer to one’s wife, or to describe something or someone that restricts your freedom or feels like a heavy burden.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈbɔɫ/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈtʃeɪn
British English
bˈɔːl/ /ˈænd/ /tʃˈeɪn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
BAWL-uhnd-CHAYN
UK
BAWL-and-CHAYN
Listen in Context
Some people call their wife their ball and chain.
I can’t come tonight—my ball and chain needs me at home.
He says his job is a real ball and chain.
Honestly, my mortgage feels like a ball and chain sometimes.