What does thriller mean?
A thriller is a work, especially a novel, film, or television programme, designed to keep its audience feeling suspense, excitement, or fear. Thrillers commonly involve crime, danger, mystery, deception, or danger-filled journeys, but the defining feature is the emotional response they create rather than a single plot or subject. The word can also refer more broadly to a person or experience that produces intense excitement. In everyday use, "thriller" suggests something gripping and suspenseful, often with the expectation of revelations, shocks, or a satisfying resolution. It is widely used in both British and American English and appears in combinations such as "psychological thriller," "crime thriller," "thriller novel," and "thriller film." Because it can describe both the work itself and the sensation it produces, the word is useful for discussing entertainment that is designed to hold an audience's attention. The term carries a generally favourable connotation, implying excitement and strong engagement rather than merely frightening content.
nounA novel, film, play, or other work that is designed to excite or suspense the audience, especially through danger, mystery, crime, or suspenseful developments. By extension, it can refer to a person or experience that produces intense excitement.
- A work of fiction, film, drama, or similar entertainment that excites or suspends the audience through danger, mystery, crime, or suspense.
- A person or thing that causes intense excitement or emotion.
"The novel became an international thriller, keeping readers guessing until its startling final chapter."
"The director is known for atmospheric thrillers set in remote locations."
"The young violinist was a real thriller, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd."
The regular plural is used for individual works, such as novels or films, and for people or experiences that cause intense excitement.
"She has written several thrillers that combine intricate plots with sharp social observation."
Thriller turned an everyday verb into a genre label: it names the kind of story that keeps you turning pages long after you should have gone to bed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does thriller come from?
Thriller was formed in English by adding the suffix -er to thrill, with the sense of something or someone that causes excitement or suspense. Its use for an exciting or suspenseful story developed during the early twentieth century, alongside the growth of modern popular fiction, film, and crime narratives.
How thriller is actually used
The word is especially common for stories, films, and television programmes, but it can also describe any intensely exciting person, performance, or event. It is often used attributively, as in "thriller novelist" or "thriller series."
Easily confused with thriller
A thriller is an exciting work or experience, whereas a thrill is the feeling of excitement itself or the act of causing that feeling.