kiss of death

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Paying above-average multiples on above-trend earnings is the kiss of death for investors in cyclical businesses.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

But in the 50-page strategy document, the word “challenges” is mentioned quite a bit, and I worry that this particular reference could be the kiss of death:

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2025

For 10 years, people have debated whether Johnson has talent, wit, charisma and screen presence; whether she can lead a movie or whether she’s its kiss of death.

From Salon • Jun. 17, 2025

That was the kiss of death for Musk’s D.C. welcome.

From Slate • Jun. 6, 2025

That big crazy man was really the kiss of death.

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole