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Region: US | Usage example: Don't rain on the parade with negative comments.

Rain on the parade

Meaning

Spoil someone's enjoyment.

Usage

Used when warning against pessimism around happy news.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Bad weather ruining celebratory parades.

Used in early 20th-century American idioms referencing parades.

Related Idioms

Rain on your parade

Disappoint or spoil someone's good mood or celebration.

Don't rain on my parade

Don't spoil my celebration or good mood.

Take a rain check

Postpone politely with hope of later fulfillment.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.