showstopper

noun

show·​stop·​per ˈshō-ˌstä-pər How to pronounce showstopper (audio)
Synonyms of showstoppernext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lush peony blooms are the showstoppers of the spring garden. Heather Bien, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026 Famous for its charming spikes of pink or white blossoms in late spring and early summer, this perennial is a true showstopper. Lynn McAlpine, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2026 Down to two showstoppers, Strong and Fudd, but with a strong ensemble cast, these Huskies made 31-0 look so easy, where last year’s team lost three. Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 2 Mar. 2026 And his singing and emotional commitment are delivered with slam-dunk energy, like every tune is the huge showstopper during his last concert ever. Jon Dolan, Rolling Stone, 2 Mar. 2026 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

Cite this Entry

“Showstopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showstopper. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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