albatross AL-buh-tross noun WS #2

a large oceanic bird with long, narrow wings; metaphorically, a psychological burden that feels like a curse

1. The massive debt was an albatross around the company's neck.
2. After five years, the failed merger remained an albatross for the CEO.
3. The old coal plant had become an albatross for the energy company as green policies advanced.
4. The albatross soared gracefully above the waves, barely flapping its wings.
5. His past mistakes became an albatross, preventing him from moving forward in his career.