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Spoilsport Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spoilsport

[ˈspɔɪlˌspɔrt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

someone who ruins other people's fun

A spoilsport is a person who takes all the joy out of a situation by being disapproving or critical. Spoilsports often spoil the fun by pointing out the negative aspects of a situation and refusing to participate in activities that others enjoy.

Synonyms

killjoy, party pooper, wet blanket.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spoilsport

Refers to someone who ruins other people's enjoyment or fun, usually by refusing to participate or by being negative.

  • Don't be a spoilsport; join us on the dance floor
  • Tim is such a spoilsport, always complaining about every event
killjoy

Describes a person who deliberately dampens the spirits of others, often by rejecting fun activities or by being overly serious.

  • He’s such a killjoy; he never lets us play loud music
  • Stop being a killjoy and just enjoy the party!
wet blanket

Refers to someone who is consistently negative or gloomy, making others feel less enthusiastic or bringing down the mood of a group.

  • Stop being such a wet blanket and have some fun
  • His constant complaining made him a real wet blanket at the party
party pooper

A casual term used for someone who disapproves of or refuses to engage in fun activities, typically at social gatherings.

  • Don't be a party pooper; come and dance with us
  • She left the party early, what a party pooper!

Examples of usage

  • He's such a spoilsport, always complaining when we're trying to have a good time.
  • Don't be a spoilsport, just join in and have fun with us!

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Context

  • In many cultures, those labeled as spoilsports are often viewed negatively, particularly in team sports where camaraderie is key.
  • Films and books often feature characters who are spoilsports to highlight the importance of fun and teamwork.

Psychology

  • Spoilsports may stem from personality traits like high conscientiousness or a low tolerance for chaos, making them less likely to enjoy playful situations.
  • Research in social psychology suggests that people's desire to enforce rules can sometimes overshadow their ability to enjoy leisure activities.

Literature

  • Classic literature often includes characters depicted as spoilsports to challenge the protagonist's journey toward joy or freedom.
  • In children's books, spoilsports serve as antagonists, emphasizing the importance of self-expression and play.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary slang, spoilsport may also describe someone who criticizes others' enjoyment or fun ideas, especially in social media contexts.
  • The word can also be used humorously among friends to tease someone who is being overly serious during casual gatherings.

Origin of 'spoilsport'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'spoilsport' dates back to the early 19th century and is a combination of 'spoil' (to ruin) and 'sport' (fun).
  • Historically, the word was often used to describe a person who dampens the enjoyment of group activities.

The term 'spoilsport' originated in the 18th century and combines 'spoil' (to impair or damage the quality or value of) with 'sport' (an activity involving physical exertion and skill that is governed by a set of rules or customs). The concept of a spoilsport has been prevalent throughout history, as there have always been individuals who seek to dampen the enjoyment of others.

See also: spoil, spoilage, spoiled, spoiledness, spoiling, spoils, unspoiled.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,532, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.