Meaning:
1. One’s spouse (derogatory but often affectionate); 2. an ongoing burden
Examples:
- Most men come to want the ball and chain.
- Don't look at me like I'm the old ball and chain.
- It would be like a ball and chain.
- He's free of this ball and chain.
- I won't just be a ball and chain.
- See the old ball and chain.
- I mean, I really want to thank you guys for saving me from the old ball and chain.
- Where are our friends, Ball and Chain?
- Where is the old ball and chain?
- So there's no need for a ball and chain.