1. performances or acts so impressive that they interrupt a show with applause
Usage: theater; entertainment
2. critical problems or issues that prevent progress or completion
Usage: business; informal

Examples

• The musical featured several showstoppers that brought the audience to their feet.
• Her solo dance number was one of the evening’s biggest showstoppers.
• The technical issues became real showstoppers for the product launch.
• We need to identify any potential showstoppers before the merger proceeds.
• The Broadway revival included three showstoppers that weren’t in the original production.
• Budget constraints turned out to be the main showstoppers for the project.
• The singer’s powerful ballad was the showstopper of the concert.