showstopper
UK[ˈʃəʊˌstɒpə]US[ˈʃoʊˌstɑːpər]
n
a performance or part of a performance that is so impressive that it is interrupted by applause.
n
an issue or problem that is so significant that it causes an activity, plan, or process to be stopped completely.
Morpheme Breakdown
show
stop
er
show
stop
er
Etymology
the word 'showstopper' is a modern english compound, originating in the early 20th century theatrical slang. it literally describes a performance element so powerful it 'stops the show' by eliciting prolonged applause, forcing a pause. the first element, 'show', derives from the old english verb for seeing, evolving to mean a public spectacle. the second, 'stop', from old english, carries its core sense of causing cessation. the agent suffix '-er' personifies the performance itself as the entity causing the halt. this vivid theatrical term was later adopted into general and technical jargon to metaphorically denote any critical obstacle that halts progress.
Analysis
Structure: show + stop + er
show: from old english sceawian (to look at, see, gaze), functioning as the base noun meaning a spectacle or performance.
stop: from old english stoppian (to block up, close), functioning as a verb root meaning to cause to cease.
er: from old english -ere, an agent noun suffix, functioning to denote a person or thing that performs the action.
Examples
the singer's powerful ballad was the undeniable showstopper of the night.
a major security flaw was discovered, becoming a potential showstopper for the software's release.
the lack of funding proved to be the showstopper for the ambitious construction project.