noun
spoilsport
SPOYL-spawt
Spoilsport (noun) means someone who ruins other people's enjoyment or fun. Example: “Don't be a spoilsport — come dancing with us!”
noun
1
Someone who ruins other people's enjoyment or fun.
"Don't be a spoilsport — come dancing with us!"
How to use spoilsport
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who kills the fun for everyone else.
When to use it
Informal, mildly disapproving.
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Word forms
- Plural
- spoilsports
- Comparative
- more spoilsport
- Superlative
- most spoilsport
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Don't be a _____ — come dancing with us!
Etymology
From the phrase "spoil sport," meaning to ruin the amusement.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
life and soul of the party
life of the party
live wire
party animal
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “spoilsport” mean?
The word “spoilsport” means someone who ruins other people's enjoyment or fun. In plain terms, someone who kills the fun for everyone else.
How do you pronounce “spoilsport”?
“Spoilsport” is pronounced SPOYL-spawt (/ˈspɔɪl.spɔɹt/ in IPA).
How do you use “spoilsport” in a sentence?
Here is “spoilsport” used in a sentence: “Don't be a spoilsport — come dancing with us!”
What is the opposite of “spoilsport”?
The opposite of “spoilsport” — its antonyms — are life and soul of the party, life of the party, live wire and party animal.
What part of speech is “spoilsport”?
“Spoilsport” is a noun.
