showstopper
noun
show·stop·per
ˈshō-ˌstä-pər 
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
Examples of showstopper in a Sentence
at the modeling agency everyone was a showstopper
Recent Examples on the Web
Apart from bouquets and centerpieces for holidays and special occasions, Jessica also shows off her arranging skills in videos depicting how the floral showstoppers come together.
—
Christopher Rudolph, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025
What’s On the Menu The Official Kentucky Derby 151 On-Track Food Menu delivers a mix of Southern staples and polished showstoppers—dishes that are comforting, upscale, and built to last through long race-day service.
—Nasha Smith, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
With its corset bodice and mermaid style, this dress is a showstopper for formal and semiformal weddings alike.
—Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2025
Covered in sugar-citrus glaze, this ham recipe (pictured) is a showstopper worthy of the center of the table.
—Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for showstopper
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Christopher Rudolph, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025
What’s On the Menu The Official Kentucky Derby 151 On-Track Food Menu delivers a mix of Southern staples and polished showstoppers—dishes that are comforting, upscale, and built to last through long race-day service.
—Nasha Smith, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
With its corset bodice and mermaid style, this dress is a showstopper for formal and semiformal weddings alike.
—Jené Luciani Sena, FOXNews.com, 21 Apr. 2025
Covered in sugar-citrus glaze, this ham recipe (pictured) is a showstopper worthy of the center of the table.
—Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for showstopper
Cite this Entry
“Showstopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showstopper. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.
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