grinches

Grinches are people who spoil others' enjoyment, especially during festive occasions.

The term comes from the Dr.

Seuss character who tried to steal Christmas from the cheerful Whos of Whoville.

Someone called a grinch typically displays a sour attitude toward celebrations that others find joyful: Don't be such a grinch—it's just one office party.

The word often appears around the winter holidays but applies year-round to killjoys and spoilsports.