An Australian and New Zealand adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or resembling a wowser — that is, a killjoy, puritan, or moral busybody who objects to others' pleasures.
An Australian and New Zealand adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or resembling a wowser — that is, a killjoy, puritan, or moral busybody who objects to others' pleasures. 'Wowserian' attitudes or policies are those that prioritise propriety and restraint over enjoyment, especially regarding alcohol, sex, or gambling.
The new licensing rules had a distinctly wowserian flavour to them.
Wowserian means: An Australian and New Zealand adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or resembling a wowser - that is, a killjoy, puritan, or moral busybody who objects to others' pleasures. 'Wowserian'. It is mainly New Zealand English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour.
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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Aussie and Kiwi vocabulary — bogan, daggy, brekkie, sheila, bach, jandals — the whole Antipodean lexicon, including outback dialect, surf and beach culture, and Sydney/Melbourne street slang.
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(AU, NZ) Resembling or characteristic of wowsers .
(AU, NZ) The realm or sphere of wowsers .
Australian and New Zealand slang for the collective world or culture of wowsers — people who are excessively moralistic, puritanical, or opposed to fun and drinking. 'Wowserdom' typically carries a dismissive, satirical tone, used to critique overzealous temperance advocates, killjoys, or anyone seen as interfering in others' harmless pleasures. The term was especially common in Australian political and social commentary in the early 20th century, where anti-alcohol campaigners were frequent targets.
(AU, NZ) moral crusading against alcohol, gambling, pornography, etc.
Wowserian means: An Australian and New Zealand adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or resembling a wowser - that is, a killjoy, puritan, or moral busybody who objects to others' pleasures. 'Wowserian'. It is mainly New Zealand English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour.
wowserian means: An Australian and New Zealand adjective meaning relating to, characteristic of, or resembling a wowser - that is, a killjoy, puritan, or moral busybody who objects to others'. Register: informal, New Zealand English. Often not understood outside its region; gloss the word on first use when writing for an international audience. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.
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(AU, NZ) Of or relating to wowsers .
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