Showstopper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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showstopper

[ˈʃoʊˌstɑːpər ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

entertainment industry

A showstopper is a performance, song, or act that receives such a positive reaction from the audience that it forces the show to pause momentarily to allow for applause or cheers.

Synonyms

crowd-pleaser, scene-stealer, show-stopping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
showstopper	Used to describe a performance or element in a performance that is so impressive it interrupts the flow of the show with applause. Can also refer to something that causes a significant delay or obstacle in a situation. Her solo was a real showstopper and had the audience on their feet The software bug turned out to be a showstopper that delayed the project
show-stopping	Used to describe something exceptionally excellent or beautiful that commands attention and admiration. She walked into the gala in a show-stopping red dress The show-stopping finale left the audience in awe
crowd-pleaser	Describes an entertainment act or performance that is especially popular and well-received by a wide audience. The movie was a crowd-pleaser, with everyone clapping by the end His jokes always make him the crowd-pleaser at parties
scene-stealer	Refers to a performer or character that draws attention away from others in a scene, often due to their exceptional performance. The child actor was a true scene-stealer, capturing everyone's attention Even surrounded by stars, her performance was a scene-stealer

Examples of usage

The final number of the musical was a real showstopper, with the audience giving a standing ovation.
Her solo performance was a showstopper, leaving the audience in awe.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

Award shows often feature performances that become showstoppers, leaving audiences in awe.
In movies, certain scenes, like catastrophic explosions or epic dance numbers, are occasionally labeled showstoppers.
Famous songs, like 'Proud Mary', have a reputation for being a showstopper in musical performances.

Music

In concerts, a 'showstopper' is often an artist's biggest hit that electrifies the crowd.
Musicals, such as 'Hamilton', contain numbers known as showstoppers because of their captivating choreography and lyrics.
The term is used in the music industry to describe tracks that achieve significant chart success and audience acclaim.

Theater

Classic musicals often identify key songs as showstoppers, launching the careers of performers.
A major dramatic moment, such as the finale in 'Les Misérables', is commonly referred to as a showstopper due to its emotional impact.
Directors carefully design showstopping numbers to elevate the audience's experience in live theater.

Business

In product launches, companies strive for a showstopper feature that differentiates them from competitors.
Presentations aiming to impress investors often include a showstopper element to capture attention.
Marketing campaigns sometimes highlight a showstopper aspect to maximize audience engagement and brand retention.

Origin of 'showstopper'

Main points about word origin

The term originated in the theater world, describing a moment that is so remarkable it could literally halt the show.
First recorded in the early 20th century, it highlighted standout performances during stage shows.
Its metaphorical use has expanded beyond theater, now describing anything that draws significant attention.

The term 'showstopper' originated in the world of theater, where it refers to a performance that is so outstanding that it brings the show to a temporary halt due to the audience's overwhelming reaction. Over time, the term has been adopted in other entertainment industries, such as music and television, to describe similarly remarkable moments that captivate and impress audiences.