WET BLANKET Meaning and
Definition
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"Wet blanket" is a colloquial idiom commonly used to describe a person or thing that dampens enthusiasm, fun, or excitement within a group or social setting. It refers to an individual who tends to have a negative or pessimistic attitude and who deliberately spoils or discourages the enjoyment and merriment of others.
The term "wet blanket" originates from the literal concept of a wet blanket extinguishing or suppressing fire. In social contexts, a wet blanket similarly dampens the emotional "fire" around them, diluting the mood through their discouraging or gloomy demeanor. Such an individual often expresses skepticism, cynicism, or pessimism, and may frequently vocalize concerns, worries, or criticisms that hinder others from fully embracing the moment or pursuing exciting endeavors.
A wet blanket can manifest in various forms, including someone who frequently complains, finds fault, or prevents others from engaging in activities or pursuing new ideas due to their fear of failure or negative outlook. This behavior can be unintentional, resulting from shyness or introversion, or more deliberately manipulative, with a desire to control or dominate situations.
The term is typically used in a lighthearted manner, usually to express frustration or annoyance toward someone who consistently undermines the joy or enthusiasm of others. It implies that the individual dampens the metaphorical "spark" or energy present, potentially spoiling the atmosphere of a social gathering, outing, or event.
Common Misspellings for WET BLANKET
- qet blanket
- aet blanket
- set blanket
- eet blanket
- 3et blanket
- 2et blanket
- wwt blanket
- wst blanket
- wdt blanket
- wrt blanket
- w4t blanket
- w3t blanket
- wer blanket
- wef blanket
- weg blanket
- wey blanket
- we6 blanket
- we5 blanket
- wet vlanket
Etymology of WET BLANKET
The phrase "wet blanket" originated in the early 19th century. It combines two separate words to create a metaphorical expression.
The word "wet" in this context refers to something damp or soaked in water. It suggests a feeling of discomfort, inconvenience, or dissatisfaction.
The word "blanket" in this context refers to a large piece of cloth, typically used to keep warm. The image of a soaked blanket creates an association with something heavy, unwieldy, and burdensome.
When combined, the phrase "wet blanket" refers to a person or thing that dampens or spoils enthusiasm, enjoyment, or excitement. It is commonly used to describe someone who is excessively negative or discouraging, often ruining the mood or atmosphere of a situation.
Idioms with the word WET BLANKET
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a wet blanket
The idiom "a wet blanket" refers to a person who is negative, discouraging, or spoils the enthusiasm or enjoyment of others. It is often used to describe someone who dampens the mood or puts a damper on a situation or event.
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throw a wet blanket over something
The idiom "throw a wet blanket over something" means to dampen or spoil enthusiasm, excitement, or optimism about an idea, plan, or event. It refers to someone or something that discourages or undermines the positive energy of a situation by expressing negativity or doubts.
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wet blanket
A wet blanket is someone who dampens the enthusiasm or enjoyment of others, often by displaying a negative or pessimistic attitude.
