hang over someone's head

Meanings:

• 1.

  General Englishliteralneutral
  • To be physically suspended above a person's head.

• 2.

  USUKidiomaticformal
  • To pose an imminent threat to someone, especially the prospect of punishment or sanction.

• 3.

  USUKidiomaticneutral
  • To remain a continuing source of worry, burden, or preoccupation for someone.