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

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

The report recommended a “fix without release” plan I couldn’t quite comprehend, and it called for input from several city departments, which is always the kiss of death in L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 1, 2024

And it was the kiss of death for Mother.

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman