kryptonite

[ krip-tuh-nahyt ]

/ ˈkrɪp təˌnaɪt /

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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.

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Origin of kryptonite

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

Words nearby kryptonite

Krutch, Krylon, Krym, kryo-, krypton, kryptonite, krytron, Kryvyi Rih, KS, K selection, KSG

How to use kryptonite in a sentence

And similar shards of enthusiasm-killing kryptonite are lodged in John Kasich, Mike Pence and Ted Cruz.
Why This Liberal Hearts Huckabee|Sally Kohn|January 6, 2015|DAILY BEAST
Thankfully, neither iteration relies on lazy storylines involving kryptonite or Lex Luthor (at least not yet).
‘Man of Steel’ Is Fun to Watch, But It’s Still a Failure. Here’s Why.|Sujay Kumar|June 15, 2013|DAILY BEAST
Interestingly, actual man-child Justin Bieber was cover kryptonite.
Is Mila Kunis Good for Men?|Danielle Friedman|July 1, 2012|DAILY BEAST
But for now, it looks like Republicans are surrounded by kryptonite.
Newt Gingrich Presidential Campaign Goes Kaboom|Mark McKinnon|May 18, 2011|DAILY BEAST

Interesting juice choices like a liver detox or kryptonite mix flavors, like carrot and ginger with apple and grapefruit.
Gal With a Suitcase|Jolie Hunt|February 20, 2011|DAILY BEAST
If you buy a Kryptonite bike lock and it can be defeated with a Bic pen, you're not getting very good security for your money.
Little Brother|Cory Doctorow