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Definition of kryptonite

kryptonite

/ˈkrɪp.tə.naɪt/
kryp · to · nite
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kryptonite Lexical Profile

kryptonite Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

In comic books and science fiction, a fictional radioactive mineral from the planet Krypton that deprives Superman of his superpowers.

Example

"In the classic storyline, the villain uses a glowing shard of green kryptonite to neutralize the hero's strength."

2

Something that seriously weakens, impairs, or ruins a specific person, or to which someone is hopelessly vulnerable.

Example

"Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies are my absolute kryptonite whenever I try to follow a strict diet."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

krone
krushuna
krypton
kryptonite
ktunaxa
kuala lumpur
kuang si

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1943 for the radio drama 'The Adventures of Superman' by combining the name of Superman's fictional home planet, Krypton (ultimately from Ancient Greek kryptos, meaning 'hidden'), with the mineralogical suffix '-ite'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kryptonite. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kryptonite
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