English Explanatory Dictionary

pot boiler

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A creative work of low quality (book, art, etc.), produced merely to earn a living or for profit, as opposed to serious creative expression.
  2. A stone used to transfer heat from a fire into a vessel of water, so as to heat the contents.

Word forms

pot boiler pot boilers potboiler pot-boiler

Etymology

The figurative sense comes from the notion that the writer's or artist's output is enough to provide sustenance; compare breadwinner, put food on the table, and keep the lights on.

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