loser

word

/ˈɫuzɝ/
LOO-zur
/lˈuːzɐ/
LOO-zuh

Definition

A loser is a person who does not win a game, competition, or contest. It is also a common insulting word for someone seen as unsuccessful, weak, or not respected.

Usage & Nuances

Common in everyday speech, but often rude when used about a person. Literal use appears in games or contests ('The loser pays for dinner'). As an insult, it is stronger than simply saying someone failed once; it suggests a negative judgment about the person. Related adjective: 'losing' in phrases like 'a losing team,' but not 'a loser team'.

Example Sentences

In this game, the loser washes the dishes.

basic

He called himself a loser after the match.

basic

Don't say she is a loser just because she failed once.

basic

Whoever gets the lowest score is the loser, okay?

natural

He acts like calling people losers makes him look cool.

natural

I lost the race, but that doesn't make me a loser.

natural