Dictionary.com

kryptonite

[ krip-tuh-nahyt ]
/ ˈkrɪp təˌnaɪt /
Save This Word!

noun
Usually Kryptonite . a fictional radioactive substance that is the only thing capable of hurting or weakening the otherwise invulnerable superhero Superman: Exposure to Kryptonite nullifies Superman's powers and immobilizes him with pain.
Sometimes Kryptonite . something that a person or thing cannot defend against or defeat; a nemesis or bête noire: The team has not found a way to stop the triple option attack, which has been their kryptonite over the last several years.Garlic oil is kryptonite for aphids.
QUIZ
ALL IN FAVO(U)R OF THIS BRITISH VS. AMERICAN ENGLISH QUIZ
There's an ocean of difference between the way people speak English in the US vs. the UK. Are your language skills up to the task of telling the difference? Let's find out!
Question 1 of 7
True or false? British English and American English are only different when it comes to slang words.

Origin of kryptonite

Coined in 1943 by writer and producer George Lowther (1913–1975); krypton + -ite1

Words nearby kryptonite

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use kryptonite in a sentence

FEEDBACK