addle-plot en · NOUN
Etymology
From addle (“to muddle, to ruin”) + plot (“plan”). In earliest use as a character name in Love for Money by Thomas d'Urfey in 1691. Compare marplot.
Meanings
-
(archaic, idiomatic) Synonym of spoilsport, one who ruins other's plans or enjoyment of something.
'Never shall it be said of me that I'm an addle-plot, I promise you! I collect that you are going to visit a friend, or perhaps a relation?'
2008, Georgette Heyer, Lady of Quality, page 13:... fash bats and sharpering-omis were after us, those evil eagle-eeked addle-plots who cruised the city.
2023, Richard Milward, Man-Eating Typewriter, page 38:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| addle-plots | Number=Plur | lexicographic | |
| addleplot | alternative | lexicographic |
Synonyms
one who ruins other's plans or enjoyment of something · spoilsport