noun
killjoy
KIHL-joy
Killjoy (noun) means someone who spoils other people's fun or enjoyment. Example: “Don't be such a killjoy — let them have their fun.”
noun
1
Someone who spoils other people's fun or enjoyment.
"Don't be such a killjoy — let them have their fun."
How to use killjoy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA person who ruins the mood or stops others from enjoying themselves.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
such a killjoy
don't be a killjoy
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Word forms
- Plural
- killjoys
Fill the gap
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Don't be such a _____ — let them have their fun.
Etymology
A straightforward compound of "kill" + "joy," first recorded in the late 18th century.
Class of 1700
killjoy joined the language around 1700.
See the full Class of 1700 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for killjoy
See all rhymes for killjoy →Frequently asked questions
What does “killjoy” mean?
The word “killjoy” means someone who spoils other people's fun or enjoyment. In plain terms, a person who ruins the mood or stops others from enjoying themselves.
How do you pronounce “killjoy”?
“Killjoy” is pronounced KIHL-joy (/ˈkɪlˌd͡ʒɔɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “killjoy” in a sentence?
Here is “killjoy” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a killjoy — let them have their fun.”
What part of speech is “killjoy”?
“Killjoy” is a noun.
Where does the word “killjoy” come from?
The word “killjoy” dates back to around 1700. A straightforward compound of "kill" + "joy," first recorded in the late 18th century.
