Definition

A type of creative work, like a book or painting, that is made quickly and is often of low quality, mainly to make money.

Example

The author was criticized for writing a potboiler instead of a serious novel.

Conversation

Have you read that new book everyone is talking about?

I did, but honestly, it felt like a total potboiler.

I thought so too; it was so predictable and poorly written.

Exactly! It's frustrating when something gets so much hype but isn't worth it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Potboiler is formed from "pot" (from Middle English *potte*, meaning a cooking vessel) and "boiler" (from Old French *boillir*, meaning to boil). The term originally referred to a work of art or literature produced merely to generate income, as one would boil a pot for sustenance.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pot' used for cooking and 'boiling' to create something quickly — a potboiler is a work created primarily to make money, just like boiling a pot for a quick meal.

Visually Confused Words