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
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.
Dessert should be a showstopper not a snooze-fest, y’all. Josh Miller, Southern Living, 28 June 2025 The unexpected showstopper of this vintage beauty, however, is the roof terrace, a wide-open space with panoramic views across the London skyline. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 27 June 2025 Far and away the showstopper of the Highlands course are the cliffs edge holes, especially the 18th. Mike Fore, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 Paggi is growing a related plant that is a showstopper thanks to its fringed, brilliant orange-red — and occasionally yellow — petals and scarlet stamens. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 7 June 2025 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 10 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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