showstopper

noun

show·​stop·​per ˈshō-ˌstä-pər How to pronounce showstopper (audio)
Synonyms of showstoppernext
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.
Annual With brilliant blue flowers and silvery foliage, Brazilian dwarf morning-glory is a showstopper in gardens and containers. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 May 2026 Zinnias are showstoppers in the garden thanks to their colorful daisy-like blooms that are vigorous and easy to grow. Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 2 May 2026 Sunflowers, meanwhile, are the showstoppers. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2026 Beyond the camera showstopper, the phone’s hardware is firmly flagship-level. New Atlas, 27 Apr. 2026 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 5 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster