game-changer
Americannoun
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Sports. an athlete, play, etc., that suddenly changes the outcome of a game or contest.
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a person or thing that dramatically changes the course, strategy, character, etc., of something.
Social media has been a real game-changer in the company’s marketing efforts.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of game-changer
First recorded in 1960–65
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“If you want to go to an office, it’s a game-changer for your career, and employers want to invest in those who are committed to learning and adding value,” she said.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026
Despite or because of the crass, disrespectful language, conservative influencers are raving about the video as a game-changer.
From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026
“It could become a game-changer if prices escalate further, or if the situation persists for a longer period of time,” he said.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026
These have been the biggest game-changer in my kitchen — despite being, perhaps, the least sexy.
From Salon • Apr. 21, 2026
How much of a game-changer will the new 'daylight' offside rule prove to be?
From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.