showstopper

noun

show·​stop·​per ˈshō-ˌstä-pər 

1

: an act, song, or performer that wins applause so prolonged as to interrupt a performance

2

: something or someone exceptionally arresting or attractive

the gold crown was the showstopper of the exhibition

3

: one that stops or could stop the progress, operation, or functioning of something

showstopping

ˈshō-ˌstä-piŋ 

adjective

Synonyms

• babe [slang]
• cutie
• cutey
• dish
• doll
• dreamboat [slang]
• fox
• glamour-puss
• hottie
• knockout
• looker
• ten

Examples of showstopper in a Sentence

at the modeling agency everyone was a showstopper

Recent Examples on the Web

Thus, a collection that includes a no-cook berry showstopper, the best basil pesto and a vigorous watermelon salad. —Scott Hocker, theweek, 24 June 2024

If that goes well, officials don't expect any showstoppers for the July 9 launch date. —Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 14 June 2024

There was always a showstopper that needed the most extensive amount of prep, work, care, and love, with many supporting dishes. —Edy Massih, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2024

Once the epitome of grace and class, the home at 106 Oxford St., is still a showstopper, blending elegance from its heyday with modern conveniences of today. —Karen A. Avitabile, Hartford Courant, 24 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1