Meaning & use
killjoy
Last updated
Meanings
nouncountableinformaldisapproving
Someone who spoils other people's fun, often by being serious, negative or strict.
Grammar: Takes a plural: killjoys; used as a criticism.
Patterns
- don't be a killjoy
Don't be a killjoy; let the kids stay up late for once.
He was such a killjoy that no one invited him to parties.
The teacher played the killjoy by canceling the picnic.
nouncountablehumorous
A person who always points out problems and rules, whether or not they are wanted.
Grammar: Often with a mildly humorous tone.
Patterns
- play the killjoy
Sorry to play the killjoy, but the sign says no music after ten.
My sister is the family killjoy on diets.
I hate to be a killjoy, but we need to leave.
Word forms
| plural | killjoys |
|---|
Common combinations
- don't be a killjoy
- Don't be a killjoy, come dance with us.
- such a killjoy
- You're such a killjoy about holidays.
- play the killjoy
- I hate to play the killjoy, but we're out of money.
- office killjoy
- The office killjoy banned loud music.
- call someone a killjoy
- They called him a killjoy for ending the party.
Synonyms and how they differ
- spoilsport
- Spoilsport is the closest synonym but more often used for someone who refuses to join in a game.
- party pooper
- Party pooper is playful and especially used for someone who leaves or sulks at a party.
- wet blanket
- Wet blanket stresses someone dampening a mood with gloom.
- curmudgeon
- Curmudgeon is a grumpy person in general, not just someone who ruins fun.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: killjoy or spoilsport?
killjoy vs spoilsport
Spoilsport is nearly the same, but spoils a game or fun by refusing to take part.
Practice
My brother is a bit of a ___; he always points out how much a party will cost.
Choose one answer.
A killjoy spoils fun with negativity. A jester or charmer would add fun, not remove it.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “killjoy”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.