Wet Blanket Idiom – Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

A phrase or expression that deviates from the literal meaning of its words is known as an idiom.  They are widely used by English native speakers. Therefore, it is always a good idea to be familiar with a handful of the most prevalent ones if you want to earn a high band score on the IELTS.

Here, we will learn a new idiom – wet blanket.

Meaning of Wet Blanket Idiom

Meanings play an important role in shaping the depth and versatility of a phrase. So, let’s commence our exploration by unraveling the various meanings of this idiom.

• A person who ruins other people’s fun by disapproving of what they’re doing, or refusing to join in.
• Someone who dampens enthusiasm or fun in a situation.
• A person who discourages or spoils the enjoyment of others.

Origin of Wet Blanket Idiom

The expression dates from around the 1870s and is based on the fact that cooks of that era kept a wet blanket in the kitchen to smother fires quickly. Cooks have been doing this since the mid-1600s.

You can very clearly see the parallel between extinguishing a fire and extinguishing someone’s joy.

Synonyms of Wet Blanket Idiom

Here are some synonyms and similar expressions for the idiom “wet blanket”.

• Debbie Downer
• Negative Nancy
• Grinch
• Stick in the Mud
• Dampen the Spirits

Eager to unravel the colorful tapestry of idioms? Dive into a Collection of Captivating Idioms here!

Usage of Wet Blanket Idiom

Go through the following examples to understand the usage of the idiom.

1. Come on, jump in the pool! Don’t be such a wet blanket.
2. Janice is the biggest wet blanket ever. It’s why nobody invites her to their parties anymore.
3. I hate to sound like a wet blanket, but I have a high fever. I can’t make it to your party. 
4. Man, we were just joking around! Why do you have to be such a wet blanket?
5. The new curfew regulations are a damn wet blanket for the partygoers of the city.
6. Hey sorry for being a wet blanket at your pool party last night, I just wasn’t in a good mood.
7. I hate to be the wet blanket here, but we have to be inside campus by 10:30 p.m., or they will most likely fine us.
8. I sometimes have to be the wet blanket and restrain my friends, or else they will do something that they will regret.

Practice Exercise

Multiple-Choice Questions:

1. Which of the following situations best describes someone being a “wet blanket”?

a) A person who plans a surprise party for their friend

b) Someone who laughs and joins in the fun at a celebration

c) An individual who complains and criticizes at a cheerful gathering

2. In which scenario would you NOT use the “wet blanket” idiom?

a) Describing someone who adds to the enjoyment of a surprise party

b) Characterizing someone who ruins the festive atmosphere at a birthday party

c) Referring to someone who tells funny jokes at a comedy show

3. Which word best describes the role a “wet blanket” idiom plays in a situation?

a) Enhancing

b) Diminishing

c) Celebrating

4. When might you use the phrase “Don’t be such a wet blanket”?

a) When someone is sharing a heartwarming story

b) When someone is being overly negative or critical

c) When someone is organizing a fun event

5. In IELTS, why is it important to understand an idiom like “wet blanket”?

a) To learn about different types of blankets

b) To improve overall language proficiency

c) To become an expert in party planning

Answers

Here are the answers to the Multiple-Choice Questions:

1) c. An individual who complains and criticizes at a cheerful gathering

2) c. Referring to someone who tells funny jokes at a comedy show

3) b. Diminishing

4) b. When someone is being overly negative or critical

5) b. To improve overall language proficiency

Conclusion

The significance of idioms in the IELTS exam cannot be overstated. Incorporating idioms into your speaking and writing tasks can elevate your score and make your communication more engaging and precise. However, it’s essential to use them judiciously and ensure they fit naturally within the context.

So, as you prepare for the IELTS exam, don’t underestimate the power of idioms in showcasing your language skills and making a lasting impression on the examiners. All the best!

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FAQs

1. What does the idiom a wet blanket mean?

The idiom “a wet blanket” refers to someone who dampens enthusiasm, joy, or excitement in a situation, often by being negative or critical.

2. What is the nickname for a wet blanket?

A common nickname for a wet blanket is a “killjoy,” indicating someone who ruins fun or enjoyment for others.

3. Is the “wet blanket” idiom formal or informal?

“Wet blanket” is an informal idiom commonly used in everyday conversation and informal writing.

4. Are there any famous characters from literature or movies who can be considered wet blankets?

Yes, characters like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh and Debbie Downer from Saturday Night Live are often seen as wet blankets due to their pessimistic attitudes.

5. Is it possible to change someone’s behavior from being a wet blanket to being more positive?

Yes, with open communication and understanding, people can become more aware of their negative tendencies and work on being more positive and supportive.