cliffhanger Definition
- 1a situation of intense suspense at the end of an episode of a serialized work, such as a television show, leaving the audience uncertain about what will happen next
- 2a story, event, or situation that is exciting because its ending or outcome is uncertain until the last moment
Using cliffhanger: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "cliffhanger" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The season finale of the show ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next season.
Example
The book's final chapter was a cliffhanger, making readers wonder what would happen next.
Example
The game was a real cliffhanger, with both teams tied until the final seconds.
cliffhanger Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with cliffhanger
Example
The teacher left us hanging by not telling us when the test would be.
an ending to a story or episode that leaves the audience in suspense and eager for the next installment
Example
The movie ended with a cliffhanger, making everyone excited for the sequel.
a moment in a story or event that is particularly suspenseful or exciting
Example
The game had several cliffhanger moments that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Origins of cliffhanger
from the literal meaning of 'cliffhanger', a serial film genre in which each episode ends with a suspenseful climax, often with the protagonist left hanging from a cliff
Summary: cliffhanger in Brief
A 'cliffhanger' [klif-hang-er] is a suspenseful situation at the end of a serialized work, such as a TV show, that leaves the audience uncertain about what will happen next. It can also refer to any story or event that is exciting because its ending or outcome is uncertain until the last moment. Examples include season finales, book chapters, and games that are tied until the final seconds. Phrases like 'leave someone hanging' and 'cliffhanger ending' are also commonly used.
