Definition

A heavy stone used in a mill to grind grain into flour, or something that is a heavy burden or weight.

Example

The old millstone was used for grinding wheat into flour.

Conversation

I feel like my job is a real millstone sometimes.

I get that; it can be overwhelming at times.

Yeah, it just feels like a heavy burden to carry.

Maybe you should take a break and recharge a bit.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Millstone → The word is formed from "mill" (from Old English *mylen*, meaning a place for grinding) and "stone" (from Old English *stan*, meaning a hard substance). A millstone is a stone used in a mill for grinding grain into flour.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'place for grinding' ('mill') and a 'hard substance' ('stone') — together, they create a tool used to grind grain.

Visually Confused Words