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Blockbuster Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blockbuster

[หˆblษ’kหŒbสŒstษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

movie industry

A highly successful and popular movie, especially one that is very large or spectacular.

Synonyms

blockbuster hit, hit, smash hit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blockbuster

Used to describe a movie or show that is extremely popular and successful, often with a large budget and high production values. It emphasizes mass appeal and widespread attention.

  • The new superhero movie is expected to be this summer's biggest blockbuster.
  • That novel turned into a blockbuster film adaptation.
hit

A general term for something that's very popular or successful, not necessarily associated with movies or shows. It can refer to music, books, trends, or other forms of media.

  • Her new single is a massive hit on the charts.
  • The book became an overnight hit, loved by both critics and readers.
smash hit

Used to denote something that gains incredible popularity and success very quickly. It suggests an overwhelming positive reaction and often refers to music, movies, or shows.

  • The new musical turned out to be a smash hit, earning rave reviews from everyone.
  • Their last tour was a smash hit, with every show sold out.
blockbuster hit

Used similarly to 'blockbuster,' but specifically highlights the success factor, combining both the impact and the popularity. It often refers to record-breaking sales or viewership.

  • The sequel became an unexpected blockbuster hit, surpassing all box office predictions.
  • The band's latest album is already a blockbuster hit, dominating all streaming platforms.

Examples of usage

  • The new Marvel movie is expected to be a blockbuster this summer.
  • The studio invested millions of dollars in the blockbuster film production.
Context #2 | Noun

business

A large retail store or business that attracts a high volume of customers and sales.

Synonyms

bestseller, hit, success.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blockbuster

Used to describe a very popular movie or event that attracts a large number of people.

  • The new superhero movie was a blockbuster, breaking box office records.
  • The summer festival was a blockbuster event, drawing crowds from all over the country.
success

A general term used to describe a person, project, or event that achieves its goals and is well-received.

  • The charity fundraiser was a great success, raising more money than expected.
  • She has been a success in her career, climbing to the top of her field.
hit

Refers to a song, movie, show, or product that has become extremely popular and well-recognized.

  • Their latest single was a massive hit, playing on every radio station.
  • The play was a hit and ran for six months at the theater.
bestseller

Applied to books that are very popular and sell a large number of copies quickly.

  • Her new novel became a bestseller within just weeks of its release.
  • That cookbook became an instant bestseller, making the author famous overnight.

Examples of usage

  • The new shopping mall is set to become a retail blockbuster in the area.
  • The tech giant opened a new flagship store, which quickly became a blockbuster.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Star Wars' and 'Jurassic Park' are iconic examples of blockbusters that changed Hollywood's landscape.
  • The summer blockbuster season became a marketing strategy in the 1970s, turning it into a major trend for releasing big films.

Economics

  • Blockbuster films often generate billions in global box office revenue, influencing the economy of the film industry.
  • Successful blockbusters can lead to franchise expansions, including merchandise, sequels, and theme park attractions.

Technology

  • The rise of digital streaming platforms has changed how blockbusters are released and consumed by audiences.
  • Filmmakers now use advanced CGI and special effects technology to create visually stunning blockbusters.

Psychology

  • Blockbusters are designed to evoke strong emotions, using suspense, excitement, and relatable characters to connect with viewers.
  • The anticipation and shared experience of seeing a blockbuster can lead to social bonding among audiences.

Origin of 'blockbuster'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'blockbuster' originally referred to bombs used in World War II that could destroy entire city blocks.
  • In the late 1940s, 'blockbuster' started being used for hit movies that drew huge audiences to theaters.

The term 'blockbuster' originated in the 1940s and was initially used to describe a bomb capable of destroying a city block. It later evolved to refer to something huge and successful, such as a movie or a business. The word gained popularity in the entertainment industry to describe highly successful films that attract large audiences and generate substantial revenue.

See also: block, blockade, blockage, blocked, blocker, blockhead, blocking, blocklist, blocks, blocky, unblock, unblocked.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,985, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.