noun
meanie
MEE-nee
Meanie (noun) means an unkind or spoilsport person, often used affectionately or as a mild scolding. Example: “Don't be such a meanie — let your sister play too.”
noun
1
An unkind or spoilsport person, often used affectionately or as a mild scolding.
"Don't be such a meanie — let your sister play too."
"The kids called their strict babysitter a meanie."
How to use meanie
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA playful or childish word for someone being unkind or a killjoy.
When to use it
Informal and often used jokingly with children, rather than as a serious insult among adults.
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Word forms
- Plural
- meanies
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Don't be such a _____ — let your sister play too.
Etymology
From mean (unkind) plus the informal suffix -ie, in the same pattern as "sweetie" or "softie".
Synonyms
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meany
unkind person
Rhymes for meanie
See all rhymes for meanie →Frequently asked questions
What does “meanie” mean?
The word “meanie” means an unkind or spoilsport person, often used affectionately or as a mild scolding. In plain terms, a playful or childish word for someone being unkind or a killjoy.
How do you pronounce “meanie”?
“Meanie” is pronounced MEE-nee (/ˈmiːni/ in IPA).
How do you use “meanie” in a sentence?
Here is “meanie” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a meanie — let your sister play too.”
What part of speech is “meanie”?
“Meanie” is a noun.
