best-seller
UK: /ˌbest ˈsel.ər/ | US: /ˌbest ˈsel.ɚ/
n. a product, especially a book, that sells in very large numbers
n. an author or creator whose works achieve widespread commercial success
The term "best-seller" emerged in the early 20th century, combining "best" (from Old English betst, meaning "of the highest quality") and "seller" (from Old English sellere, meaning "one who sells"). It originally described books with exceptional sales, later expanding to other high-demand products. The hyphenated form preserves the compound's clarity, emphasizing the dual emphasis on quality ("best") and commercial success ("seller").
Her latest novel became an instant best-seller, topping charts worldwide.
The bookstore dedicated a special section to classic best-sellers.
Despite mixed reviews, the biography remained a best-seller for months.
Many aspiring authors dream of writing a best-seller.
The film adaptation boosted the book’s status as a perennial best-seller.