sore loser

American  

[sawr loo-zer] / ˈsɔr ˈlu zər /

noun

1. a person who is habitually angered, irritated, or annoyed when they do not win something or gain a desired advantage.

   There is no point in being a sore loser and whining about it all.

   You can't call him a sore loser—he accepts defeat with grace and dignity.

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Etymology

Origin of sore loser

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

“I would just say me being a sore loser is probably something that’s not my best attribute,” Foster said, “but, you know, I’m a competitor so it comes with that.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 29, 2024

Mr Jakins denied cheating and event chairman Jim Packer also rejected the claims, saying: "We don't know where this story has come from. Somebody's a sore loser, I think."

From BBC • Oct. 15, 2024

Gaines’ critics often accuse her of being a sore loser, but she didn’t lose to Thomas: They tied for fifth.

From Washington Times • Dec. 28, 2023

And you have to be a real sore loser.

From New York Times • Apr. 10, 2023

“She’s an emu-raffe, which is a bit like a donkey and a giraffe put together, only with fewer legs and a peevish temper. She’s a terrible sore loser at cards,” he added in a whisper.

From "Hollow City" by Ransom Riggs