kryptonite

== English == === Etymology === From a fictional radioactive element, kryptonite, that has a detrimental effect on the otherwise invulnerable character Superman. Formed from Superman's home planet Krypton +‎ -ite, which was named after the chemical element krypton. === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈkɹɪptənaɪt/ === Noun === kryptonite (usually uncountable, plural kryptonites) (figuratively) The one weakness of something or someone that is otherwise invulnerable. Synonyms: Achilles heel, weakness; see also Thesaurus:weak spot (slang) Crack cocaine. ==== Translations ==== === Verb === kryptonite (third-person singular simple present kryptonites, present participle kryptoniting, simple past and past participle kryptonited) To expose to, or attack with, kryptonite. (figuratively) To destroy, wreck, or ruin; to affect adversely, as Superman is affected by kryptonite. === Further reading === kryptonite on Wikipedia.Wikipedia