show-stopper
noun
a performer, performance, or musical number that wins enthusiastic or prolonged applause.
showstopper
-
a variation of
show-stopper.
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.
Two years since his breakout at Euro 2024, where he embarrassed defenders for fun and still finished his homework on the side, the country’s youngest showstopper has gone oddly quiet.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026
While it is undoubtedly a showstopper, it is not without contradictions and there was criticism that it was not a representation of "real" Scotland.
From BBC ● Jun. 16, 2026
Their comically macabre Act 1 showstopper, “A Little Priest,” in which they gleefully imagine the variety of human pies, needs a little more time in the oven.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 3, 2026
Kelson chooses performance, and turns out a showstopper that director Nia DaCosta renders in golden glory.
From Salon ● Jan. 23, 2026
I always thought love was about the showstopper moments.
From "What If It's Us" by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera
