albatross
Translation
albatross, burden, encumbrance
Examples
The albatross is a large seabird.
The albatross is a large seabird.
The huge debt became an albatross around his neck.
The huge debt became an albatross around his neck.
Grammar Patterns
an albatross a type of bird The albatross is a large seabird.
an albatross around (sb.'s) neck a burden The huge debt became an albatross around his neck.
Similar Words
Synonyms (figurative): burden, millstone, encumbrance
Etymology
From Arabic 'al-qādūs' (the bucket) via Portuguese 'alcatraz' (pelican), altered by influence of Latin 'albus' (white).
Memory Tips
Remember the poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' where a sailor who kills an albatross is forced to wear it around his neck as a symbol of his burden.