Entry Word: demonstrate

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to gain full recognition or acceptance of <you must demonstrate your scientific thesis before a jury of your professional peers> — see establish 1
2 to show the existence or truth of by evidence <the paleontologist hopes to demonstrate that dinosaurs once existed in central Peru by unearthing fossil remains> — see prove 1
3 to make known (something abstract) through outward signs <the babysitterʼs actions during the emergency demonstrate her underlying dependability> — see show 2
4 to make plain or understandable <a few facts should demonstrate the complex nature of our topic> — see explain 1
5 to show or make clear by using examples <the visiting physicist demonstrated very graphically several basic scientific principles> — see illustrate 1