block-buster

block-buster

A new block-buster is playing at the cinema this weekend.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A highly successful and popular film, book, or other product: "block-buster" refers to a work of entertainment, especially a film, that achieves enormous commercial success and widespread public attention.
    • A large bomb capable of destroying a block of buildings: Historically, "block-buster" described a powerful explosive device used in warfare.
Usage Examples

  • Highly successful product:

    • The new superhero movie became a block-buster, earning over a billion dollars worldwide. (It was extremely popular and financially successful.)
    • Her latest novel is a block-buster, topping bestseller lists for months. (The book sold very well.)

  • Large bomb:

    • During World War II, block-busters were used to demolish entire city blocks. (The bombs were powerful enough to destroy large areas.)
Advanced Usage

  • "block-buster franchise": a series of highly successful films or products.

    • The "Star Wars" series is a block-buster franchise that has generated billions in revenue. (A group of very profitable films.)

  • "block-buster hit": a specific film or song that is exceptionally popular.

    • The song was a block-buster hit, played on every radio station. (The song was extremely successful.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Blockbuster (also spelled without a hyphen): the same meaning, commonly used as a single word.
    • The studio released a blockbuster every summer. (A very successful film.)
  • Blockbusting (adj): describing something that is a blockbuster.
    • The blockbusting performance drew record crowds. (The performance was extremely successful.)
Synonyms
  • Megahit: a very big success, especially in entertainment.
  • Smash: a huge success (e.g., )
  • Sensation: something that causes great excitement and interest.
Idioms

  • To be a blockbuster: to be extremely successful.

    • The movie was a blockbuster, breaking all previous records. (It achieved exceptional success.)

  • Blockbuster effect: the impact of a very popular product on an industry.

    • The blockbuster effect of the film led to a surge in merchandise sales. (The success affected other related products.)