noun
popular figure; person in demand; favorite
Refers to someone who is currently very popular and sought-after in their field, such as an entertainer, writer, or professional. Often used in media and entertainment contexts. The ateji spelling 売れっ妓 was sometimes used for geisha.
彼は今、テレビで一番の売れっ子司会者だ。
He is currently the most popular TV host.
あの作家は売れっ子で、新刊が出るたびに
That writer is in high demand; every new book becomes a bestseller.
Derived from the verb 売れる (to sell well, to be popular) with the suffix っ子, which adds a sense of endearment or familiarity. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it likely originated in Edo-period entertainment districts.