killjoy

noun

kill·​joy ˈkil-ˌjȯi 

: one who spoils the pleasure of others

Synonyms of killjoy

• spoilsport
• cynic
• drag
• complainer
• bore
• grinch
• crab

Examples of killjoy in a Sentence

I don't want to sound like a killjoy, but shouldn't we study tonight?

his perpetually negative attitude made him a real killjoy when others were trying to have fun

Recent Examples on the Web

Which poem, and why did the killjoys at the magazine turn it down? — Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2026

Stay a while Another eclipse killjoy? — Maya Silver, Outside, 21 Oct. 2025

In the end, at the risk of sounding like a killjoy, a real way to save the planet and save money is to just buy and produce less. — Kara McGrath, Allure, 22 Apr. 2026

Not surprisingly, the overwhelming response from readers told me to stop being a killjoy. — Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 2 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

killjoy

noun

kill·​joy ˈkil-ˌjȯi 

: a person who spoils the pleasure of others