shocker

American  

[shok-er] / ˈʃɒk ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that shocks. shock.

2. a sensational novel, play, etc.

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shocker British  

/ ˈʃɒkə /

noun

1. a person or thing that shocks or horrifies

2. a sensational novel, film, or play

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Etymology

Origin of shocker

First recorded in 1780–90; shock ¹ + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Oliver Fetzer, a former CEO of Viridos, said the scientists’ cost estimate, in combination with the low productivity seen in algae’s first year of outdoor testing, “was a shocker for everybody.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Lord Nash described the government's consultation as "a shocker" and he became emotional as he paid tribute to bereaved parents who campaigned for a change in the law following the deaths of their children.

From BBC

He opts for a flashy shocker of a finale, which violates the play’s comic naturalism and seems faintly desperate.

From The Wall Street Journal

They sacked Thomas Frank, thinking they were going to get this short-term fix from Tudor, but they have got a guy who has had a short-term shocker.

From BBC

For three decades, the meta-horror franchise “Scream” has outmaneuvered its fandom with so many convoluted murder motives that the only shocker left would be a straightforward, sincere slasher.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• close call