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
Synonyms
Examples of showstopper in a Sentence
at the modeling agency everyone was a showstopper
Recent Examples on the Web
While the Yellow Rose is the showstopper, the rest of the auction is laden with stunning pieces from some of the biggest jewelers in the world, as well as impressive gems of all colors.
—
Tori Latham, Robb Report, 14 May 2024
Who gets invited to the Met Gala? Zendaya, Rihanna, Jared Leto and Colman Domingo have been amongst the recent Met Gala showstoppers.
—Naledi Ushe, USA TODAY, 7 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for showstopper 
Tori Latham, Robb Report, 14 May 2024
Who gets invited to the Met Gala? Zendaya, Rihanna, Jared Leto and Colman Domingo have been amongst the recent Met Gala showstoppers.
—Naledi Ushe, USA TODAY, 7 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for showstopper
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'showstopper.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near showstopper
Cite this Entry
“Showstopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showstopper. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share