tentpole

noun

tent·​pole ˈtent-ˌpōl How to pronounce tentpole (audio)
: a big-budget movie whose earnings are expected to compensate the studio for its less profitable movies

Examples of tentpole in a Sentence

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.
Shibumi Shade Wind-powered Beach Canopy The Shibumi Classic Shade, which provides coverage for four to eight people, comes in three simple pieces: a carrying bag, a long, retractable tentpole, and the shade itself. Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 9 Aug. 2025 The tentpole has earned nearly $550 million and counting worldwide. Zack Sharf, Variety, 7 Aug. 2025 Fefferman’s tenure at Paramount included awards season campaigns for tentpole programs like Yellowstone and The Daily Show. Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2025 Marvel's big summer tentpole held on to the top spot at the domestic box office in its second week of release, and the margin of victory was significant. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 3 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tentpole

Word History

First Known Use

1987, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tentpole was in 1987

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Cite this Entry

“Tentpole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tentpole. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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