The phrase "proverbial camel" refers to a well-known saying or story about a camel to represent a situation where a small or harmless action eventually leads to a much bigger or problematic consequence. Full definition
Once the door to a little consumption is open, television sets, boats and vacation cabins push in like the proverbial camel with its nose in the tent. (religion-online.org)
Plans for participatory initiatives will founder on the drawing board due to disagreement about what that participation should look like, or will instead resemble the proverbial camel. (blog.politics.ox.ac.uk)
At its best, the story (credited to five writers, including screenwriter Meg LeFauve) evokes Jack London, but more often it feels like the proverbial camel — the horse designed by committee — with downright weird choices like a Western - themed midsection featuring Tyrannosaurus ranchers (most notably Sam Elliott) right out of City Slickers. (grouchoreviews.com)