shoot-'em-up
Americannoun
noun
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a type of computer game, the object of which is to shoot as many enemies, targets, etc, as possible
-
a fast-moving film involving many gunfights, battles, etc
Etymology
Origin of shoot-'em-up
First recorded in 1945–50
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.
The Galacticoaster is the centerpiece of Lego Galaxy, which also includes two smaller outdoor attractions, a vintage-style shoot-’em-up video game and a play area for little ones.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 6, 2026
Only about a third of the storytelling in “Lioness” is shoot-'em-up action, though.
From Salon ● Dec. 15, 2024
“I guess I’m happier they are playing chess rather than some shoot-’em-up game.
From Washington Post ● Apr. 15, 2023
At the end of all the shoot-’em-up scenes, a monster movie breaks out.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 5, 2021
Their heads were adorned with matte black helmets, and they reminded him of characters in one of those shoot-’em-up military games.
From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro
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.
