potboiler
UK: ˈpɒtˌbɔɪlə | US: ˈpɑːtˌbɔɪlər
n. a work of literature or art produced quickly and solely for financial gain, often of low quality
n. (historical) a pot used for boiling, especially in cooking
The term "potboiler" originated in the 19th century, combining "pot" (a vessel for cooking) and "boiler" (one who or that which boils). It metaphorically describes works created to "keep the pot boiling"—i.e., to earn a living—rather than for artistic merit. The word reflects the pragmatic reality of artists/writers producing quick, low-effort content to sustain themselves financially.
The novelist dismissed his early romance novels as mere potboilers.
Critics accused the film of being a shallow potboiler designed for mass appeal.
In the 1800s, many painters relied on potboilers to fund their more ambitious projects.
The term "potboiler" humorously compares artistic labor to literal survival cooking.
Despite its potboiler reputation, the book became unexpectedly popular.