blockbuster

noun

block·​bust·​er ˈbläk-ˌbə-stər 

often attributive

1

: a very large high-explosive bomb

2

: one that is notably expensive, effective, successful, large, or extravagant

3

: one who engages in blockbusting

Synonyms of blockbuster

• success
• hit

Examples of blockbuster in a Sentence

a 900-page blockbuster of a novel

the movie is expected to be the biggest blockbuster of the summer

Recent Examples on the Web

Siddiqui, who has starred in blockbusters and hits like Thamma (2025), Sacred Games (2018) and Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), also reveals the reason behind his decision not to charge an acting fee for his role. —Sara Merican, Deadline, 31 Oct. 2025

Stream your favorite shows, the biggest blockbusters and more. —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 31 Oct. 2025

Among the low points of Farrell’s career, and one of the biggest signs that maybe the whole blockbuster action-hero thing wasn’t really for him. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2025

The result may be as much a form of fan service as are the blandishments of blockbusters. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 30 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for blockbuster

• adjuster
• baluster
• combustor
• lackluster
• bluster
• buster
• cluster
• duster
• juster
• luster
• lustre
• muster

Kids Definition

blockbuster

noun

block·​bust·​er ˈbläk-ˌbəs-tər 

: one that is very large, successful, or violent

a blockbuster of a movie