wet sock

wet sock

1. Someone who is not interesting or convivial, or who dampens other people's fun or enjoyment; a killjoy. More commonly called a "wet blanket." Don't invite Nicole to the party. She's such a wet sock that she'll probably just sit around complaining the whole time. David was tired of being called a wet sock by his friends just because he doesn't drink alcohol.

2. A weak, spineless, or cowardly person. We need someone strong to lead this company into the future, not some wet sock who's afraid of confrontation. I always thought my dad was a bit of a wet sock growing up, but I came to appreciate his empathy and humility as I got older.

See also: sock, wet

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

wet sock

and wet rag

n. a wimp; a useless jerk. (see also rubber sock.) Don’t be such a wet sock! Stand up for your rights! Willard is a wet rag, but he’s kind and helpful.

See also: sock, wet

McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.