bankable

[ bang-kuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. acceptable for processing by a bank:

   bankable checks and money orders.

2. considered powerful, prestigious, or stable enough to ensure profitability:

   Without bankable stars the film script aroused no interest.

bankable

/ ˈbæŋkəbəl /

adjective

1. appropriate for receipt by a bank
2. dependable or reliable

   a bankable promise

3. (esp of a star) likely to ensure the financial success of a film

Derived Forms

• ˌbankaˈbility, noun

Other Words From

• banka·bili·ty noun
• non·banka·ble adjective
• un·banka·ble adjective
• un·banka·ble·ness noun
• un·banka·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of bankable¹

An Americanism dating back to 1810–20; bank ² + -able

Example Sentences

Organising concerts is tough, as they often incur losses, so when the opportunity arises, bankable performers are exploited for profits.

From BBC

Vaughn became a bankable comedy star, even dabbling in drama with the likes of “Brawl in Cell Block 99” and Season 2 of HBO’s crime anthology “True Detective.”

From Los Angeles Times

But intellectual property that’s bankable isn’t everything, and increasingly, interesting theater comes from movie sources hailing from left field.

From New York Times

Even though Trump provided a needed nod of support for Johnson at crucial moments, it’s not bankable going forward.

From Seattle Times

The first season, which saw Jeremy Allen White’s troubled chef, Carmy, inherit the restaurant from his dead brother, was a surprise hit despite its grubby milieu and absence of bankable stars.

From New York Times

Related Words

• profitable