Meanings
Biblical: Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss.
How to pronounce "kiss of death":
AU
A kiss on the cheek that signifies the death of the receiver, as delivered by a mob boss or one with such influence.
Something that may seem good and favourable but that actually brings ruin to hopes, plans, etc.
Example: "The role in the soap opera was the kiss of death for Ann's career as a theatrical actress."
Example Sentences
1
Releasing a single during the holidays is usually viewed as the kiss of death for a song's success.
2
In the film industry, having your movie release on the same day as a highly anticipated blockbuster can be the kiss of death.
3
After losing the endorsement deal, it was the kiss of death for her career as a brand ambassador.
4
For a technology startup, not being able to secure funding can be the kiss of death.
5
Making grammatical errors in a job application can be the kiss of death for your chances of getting hired.