spoiler

[ˈspɔɪ.lə]

[ˈspɔɪ.lɚ]

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A spoiler is something that ruins or gives away an exciting surprise, like a movie's ending.

When we talk about spoilers, we usually mean they come out of nowhere and ruin our excitement. This can happen on social media, at work, or even with friends who haven't seen the same thing as us. For example, let's say you're getting ready to watch your favorite TV show but a friend texts you the surprise twist that happened last night. That would be a spoiler! Even if it's not on purpose, saying something like "I loved the new movie" when someone is asking what it's about can spoil it for them too.

How common is "spoiler"?

Word spoiler is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

One who spoils; a plunderer; a pillager; a robber; a despoiler.
One who corrupts, mars, or renders useless.
A document, review or comment that discloses the ending or some key surprise or twist in a story, or the internal rules controlling the behaviour of a video game, etc.
A device to reduce lift.
A device to reduce lift and increase downforce
An individual (or organisation etc.), unable to win themselves, who spoils the chances of another's victory.

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verb

To mark (a document or message) with a spoiler warning, to prevent readers from accidentally learning details they would prefer not to know.
To tell (a person) details of how a story ends etc.
Example: I've been spoilered, so I doubt I'll be able to enjoy the final episode.

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