showstopper

noun

show·​stop·​per ˈshō-ˌstä-pər How to pronounce showstopper (audio)
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 adjective

Examples of showstopper in a Sentence

at the modeling agency everyone was a showstopper
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Designer pick: David Yurman Classic Cable Heart Station Bracelet David Yurman Classic Cable Heart Station Bracelet In sterling silver with 18K yellow gold, this iconic David Yurman bracelet is a holiday showstopper. Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 2024 Its 360-degree views are the real showstopper, though, offering gorgeous vistas of Bear Peak and the Flatirons, a landmark of reddish sandstone formations. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 8 Oct. 2024 Get the recipe 11 of 20 Chicken-Mushroom-Sage Casserole This one's a showstopper. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2024 Giza Museum’s showstoppers will include King Tut’s golden sarcophagus and a 3,200-year-old sculpture of pharaoh Rameses II, which will hold court near the museum’s main staircase. The Editors Of Artnews, ARTnews.com, 6 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for showstopper 

Word History

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of showstopper was in 1916

Dictionary Entries Near showstopper

Cite this Entry

“Showstopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showstopper. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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