wowser

Definition
  1. Noun (Australian and New Zealand informal):
    • A puritanical or overly moralistic person: "wowser" refers to someone who is excessively strict about moral issues, especially those related to temperance, pleasure, or enjoyment. This person often seeks to impose their own moral standards on others.
    • A killjoy or spoilsport: In a broader sense, a "wowser" is someone who disapproves of or tries to prevent others from having fun, particularly in social contexts like drinking, dancing, or entertainment.
Usage Examples
  • (A person who is overly moralistic and tries to restrict others' enjoyment.)
  • (Moralistic individuals who are against alcohol-related establishments.)
  • (A playful way to tell someone not to be a killjoy.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Wowserism" (noun): the behaviour or attitude of a wowser; excessive moralism or puritanism.
    • The city's wowserism led to strict laws against Sunday trading. (The puritanical attitude resulted in restrictive regulations.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Wowserish (adj): having the characteristics of a wowser; overly moralistic.
    • Her wowserish comments about the festival were not well received. (Her puritanical remarks were unpopular.)
Synonyms
  • Puritan: a person with strict moral or religious beliefs, especially regarding pleasure.
  • Killjoy: someone who spoils the enjoyment of others.
  • Spoilsport: a person who ruins others' fun by being overly serious or disapproving.
  • Grundy: a person who is excessively concerned with propriety (from the character Mrs. Grundy).
Related Idioms
  • "To be a wowser": to act as a killjoy or moralistic person.
    • Stop being a wowser and let the children have some fun. (Stop being overly strict and allow enjoyment.)
Cultural Note

The term "wowser" is primarily used in Australian and New Zealand English, often with a humorous or derogatory tone. It originated in the late 19th century, possibly from the phrase "We Only Want Social Evils Remedied" (W.O.W.S.E.R.), or from the British dialect word "wow" meaning "to whine" or "to complain." It is commonly associated with temperance movements and religious fundamentalism.