a damp squib



a damp squib

  (British & Australian)
an event which people think will be exciting but which is disappointing when it happens
Usage notes: A squib is a type of firework (= a small container filled with chemicals which explodes to produce bright lights and loud noises) and if it becomes wet, it will not explode.
The party turned out to be a bit of a damp squib. Half the people who'd been invited didn't turn up.
See also: damp, squib

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Phelan-Irish
RyleighRIE-leeEnglish (Modern)
Erasmos-Ancient Greek
Olivia['ɔliviə]
Milenko-Serbian, Croatian
GeenaJEE-nəEnglish (Rare)