show-stopper

American  

[shoh-stop-er] / ˈʃoʊˌstɒp ər /

Or showstopper

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.

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show stopper British  

noun

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

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Other Word Forms

• show-stopping adjective
• showstopping adjective

Etymology

Origin of show-stopper

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

The dip pairs exceptionally well with tortilla chips and salsa, but it can also be enjoyed with baguette slices and apples — the perfect dinner party show-stopper.

From Salon • Jan. 25, 2024

The creators and performers of the ‘Moulin Rouge’ musical share the origins of the six-minute show-stopper ‘Backstage Romance.’

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 8, 2022

It was also nothing if not a show-stopper, with Sandén and her tiny back-up singers framed by majestic boats, and fireworks lighting up the skies in the song’s final moments.

From Slate • Apr. 25, 2021

Shelley King, who plays Yasmeen, was named the best show-stopper of the year, for the scene where her character suddenly finds the courage to fight back against Geoff.

From BBC • Nov. 24, 2020

Befitting the impresario, the property is a big, modern show-stopper, from its lush green driveway off Sunset Boulevard to its 6,500 square feet of meeting and event space.

From New York Times • Feb. 22, 2020