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.
The Pitt and the other HBO Max dramas in that mold are designed to provide viewing opportunities for fans awaiting for the next tentpole. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 6 Nov. 2025 After the collapse of domestic box office in October, Aron needs to convince investors AMC can leverage a steadier supply of Hollywood tentpole releases to get film lovers back in the habit of going to the multiplex in pre-pandemic numbers. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 5 Nov. 2025 The broadcast will serve as a major tentpole in Golden Week, a new initiative by Paramount and Dick Clark Productions that rolls out programming and events across platforms in the days leading up to the main Golden Globes ceremony. Clayton Davis, Variety, 5 Nov. 2025 And those are some tentpole moments that will always have a tinge of sadness no matter what. Sarah Sotoodeh, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 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 13 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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