Show

Definition

The verb "show" means to make something visible or evident, to demonstrate or explain, or to guide someone. As a noun, "show" denotes a performance, exhibition, or display, as well as the act of being visible.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ʃoʊ/
• Respelling: SHOW

British English

• IPA: /ʃəʊ/
• Respelling: SHOH

Etymology

From Old English scēawian “to look at, inspect,” related to Proto-Germanic *skawōną “to look, see.” The noun sense “spectacle” dates to the 16th century.

Derivatives

• Shown (adjective / past participle)
• Showing (noun / present participle)
• Showy (adjective)
• Showcase (noun / verb)
• Showmanship (noun)

Synonyms

• Display
• Exhibit
• Present
• Reveal
• Demonstrate

Antonyms

• Hide
• Conceal
• Obscure
• Suppress

Usage

"Show" appears in contexts of performance, explanation, and visibility: "Please show me the document," "They went to a magic show," "The data show a clear trend."

Related Terms

• Exhibit: To display for public viewing.
• Performance: An act or presentation before an audience.
• Demonstrate: To explain or illustrate how something works.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make visible or allow to be seen: To cause something to appear or be observed.
  • Example: "She showed her photographs to the class."
• To demonstrate or explain: To illustrate how something works.
  • Example: "He showed me how to use the new software."
• To indicate or prove by evidence: To reveal facts or data.
  • Example: "Studies show that exercise improves mood."
• To guide or escort: To lead someone to a place.
  • Example: "He showed the guests to their seats."
• To be visible or appear: To become noticeable.
  • Example: "A smile showed on her face."

Noun

• A performance or entertainment: A planned presentation for an audience.
  • Example: "They attended a Broadway show."
• An exhibition or display: A public presentation of objects or ideas.
  • Example: "The art show opened downtown."
• An outward appearance or pretense (for show): Mere display without substance.
  • Example: "His kindness was just for show."
• A broadcast program: A radio or television series.
  • Example: "Her favorite cooking show airs on Fridays."