shilling shocker
noun
Pronunciation: ˈʃɪlɪŋ ˈʃɒkər
Definition
An inexpensive, sensationalist piece of fiction or a pamphlet designed to thrill or frighten the reader.
Examples
The local library keeps a collection of Victorian shilling shockers that were once considered scandalous literature.
Critics dismissed the popular novella as nothing more than a crude shilling shocker meant to exploit the public's love for horror.
Many of the gothic stories published in the 19th century began their lives as cheap shilling shockers sold on street corners.
Synonyms of shilling shocker
Words with a similar meaning to shilling shocker:
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