shoot-'em-up

[ shoot-uhm-uhp ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a motion-picture or television program that emphasizes gunplay, action, and often violence.

shoot-'em-up

noun

1. a type of computer game, the object of which is to shoot as many enemies, targets, etc, as possible
2. a fast-moving film involving many gunfights, battles, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoot-'em-up¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

It's a brawny tale attempting to imbue its shoot-'em-up action with brains and, if not a soul, then an intriguing level of artificial intelligence.

From Salon

Most of the third season premiere manifests as a shoot-'em-up interspersed with elements recognizable to anyone who has watched "The Matrix," "Blade Runner," "Johnny Mnenomic," and other cyberpunk flicks.

From Salon

As a tough-talking shoot-'em-up, “Term Life” is perfectly serviceable — but ultimately unmemorable.

From Los Angeles Times

"Hitman: Agent 47," a shoot-'em-up action movie from Fox based on a video game, debuted in fourth place.

From US News

"What begins as a clever action-comedy ... devolves into a standard shoot-'em-up, with gore splashed around to distract us from the dearth of wit," says Sarah Stewart of the New York Post.

From Los Angeles Times