blockbuster

[blok-buhs-ter]

noun

1. an aerial bomb containing high explosives and weighing from four to eight tons, used as a large-scale demolition bomb.

2. a motion picture, novel, etc., especially one lavishly produced, that has or is expected to have wide popular appeal or financial success.

3. something or someone that is forcefully or overwhelmingly impressive, effective, or influential.

   The campaign was a blockbuster.

4. a real-estate speculator who practices blockbusting.

blockbuster

/ ˈblɒkˌbʌstə /

noun

1. a large bomb used to demolish extensive areas or strengthened targets

2. a very successful, effective, or forceful person, thing, etc

3. a lavish film, show, novel, etc, that proves to be an outstanding popular success

Word History and Origins

Origin of blockbuster¹

First recorded in 1940–45; block + buster

Example Sentences

The star-studded crowd descending on Paramount Studios’ Los Angeles lot Sunday isn’t there to shoot the next Hollywood blockbuster.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

At the same time, “Nebraska ’82” offers a powerful nod to the future — in this case, the blockbuster “Born in the USA” album on the not-so-distant horizon.

Read more on Salon

Analysts see the drug eventually hitting blockbuster status.

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In July, the Defense Department signed a blockbuster deal with MP that included capital, a price floor, and a guaranteed customer for new capacity.

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The Slovenian star, acquired in a blockbuster trade last February, added 12 rebounds and nine assists.

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