show-stopper

or show·stop·per

[ shoh-stop-er ]

noun

1. Theater. a performer, performance, or musical number that wins enthusiastic or prolonged applause:

   The singer proves that she is simply a show-stopper after her resoundingly successful debut.

2. a spectacularly arresting or appealing person or thing:

   This bright plaid suit is a real show-stopper.

3. a significant obstacle or problem, especially one halting a process already underway:

   The bug was a show-stopper, delaying the game's release by months.

show stopper

noun

1. informal.
   a stage act, etc, that receives so much applause as to interrupt the performance

Other Words From

• show-stop·ping show·stop·ping adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of show-stopper¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

On the show-stopper "Turn It Off," sung by a closeted missionary struggling with his sexuality.

From The Daily Beast

This is an effortless show-stopper and the leftovers make for fabulous sandwiches, too.

From The Daily Beast