What is a 'thriller'

A thriller is defined as :

A novel, play, or film with an exciting plot, typically involving crime or espionage.
"A very exciting contest or experience."

 

Thriller is a genre of literature, film, and television programming that uses suspense, tension, and excitement as its main elements. Thrillers heavily stimulate the viewer's moods, giving them a high level of anticipation, ultra-heightened expectation, uncertainty, surprise, anxiety and terror. Films of this genre tend to be adrenaline-rushing, gritty, rousing and fast-paced.