killjoy

or kill-joy

[ kil-joi ]

noun

1. a person who spoils the joy or pleasure of others; spoilsport:

   I don't want to be a killjoy, but there is too much emphasis on booze during the holiday season.

killjoy

/ ˈkɪlˌdʒɔɪ /

noun

1. a person who spoils other people's pleasure

Word History and Origins

Origin of killjoy¹

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

The question haunts Juicy as he tries to turn his pout into a smile for the guests and not be the killjoy his stepfather accuses him of being.

From Los Angeles Times

But in truth, on any one day, in any one place, the weather could be your friend or a killjoy - and that applies to Carbondale, too.

From BBC

Mr. Whitehead infused Barbay with some pathos — the character seemed unable to keep himself from being a killjoy — which added another layer to the humor.

From New York Times

Those legal killjoys don't get it: Half of the fun of committing crimes is bragging about it afterward!

From Salon

But travelers — and I’m sorry to be a killjoy — should beware: Those seemingly cheap plane tickets or hotel rooms advertised online may be a trap to make you spend more than anticipated.

From New York Times