Jonah Meaning in English
word
Definition
'Jonah' can refer to a biblical figure who was swallowed by a big fish, but in informal English it is also used to describe a person who brings bad luck wherever they go.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly informal and used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English. Calling someone a 'Jonah' is often a superstition in groups, especially when things go wrong repeatedly. 'Jonah' is also a male first name, unrelated to the unlucky meaning.
Example Sentences
They called him a Jonah after the team lost every game he attended.
basic
A fisherman was worried about having a Jonah on his boat.
basic
His real name is Jonah, but people tease him about being unlucky.
basic
Ever since Steve joined, he's been the team's Jonah—nothing goes right.
natural
Stop blaming her for every problem—she’s not a Jonah!
natural
Nobody wanted to sit next to the supposed Jonah during the voyage.
natural