thriller

noun

thrill·​er ˈthri-lər How to pronounce thriller (audio)
: one that thrills
especially : a work of fiction or drama designed to hold the interest by the use of a high degree of intrigue, adventure, or suspense

Examples of thriller in a Sentence

His latest novel is a political thriller. those television awards are hardly thrillers since the same people win year after year
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.
Each of the 11 series projects selected for the Forum aim for resonance both at home and abroad, showcasing the wide range of today’s Ibero-American storytelling — from noir thrillers to intimate dramedies, hybrid docudramas and even adult animation. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025 That's right, the actor is playing Joseph in the supernatural thriller inspired by the apocryphal Infancy Gospel of Thomas, The Carpenter's Son. Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Oct. 2025 A’ja Wilson finished the thriller with 35 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four steals and four blocks. Ben Pickman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025 In post-production is The Leader, a historical crime thriller inspired by the story of the infamous cult known as Heaven’s Gate that committed the largest mass suicide to ever take place on American soil. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thriller

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thriller was in 1889

Cite this Entry

“Thriller.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thriller. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

thriller

noun
thril·​ler ˈthril-ər How to pronounce thriller (audio)
: one that thrills
especially : a work of fiction or drama with a great deal of action, mystery, adventure, or suspense

More from Merriam-Webster on thriller

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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