freak show

noun

: an exhibition (such as a sideshow) featuring freaks of nature

Examples of freak show in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Eugene has joined the ranks of the many enterprising freak shows working the New Orleans party circuit, where rich people pay him to dress up like a boxer and beat himself senseless. Charlie Lee, Harpers Magazine, 18 June 2025 Take a note from this freak show, network late night. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 11 Apr. 2025 Hollywood is a freak show and your job is to manage the animals. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 28 Mar. 2025 Baartman, was trafficked from South Africa by a British doctor to be paraded around Europe’s freak shows during the late 1700s. Essence, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for freak show

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of freak show was in 1887

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Cite this Entry

“Freak show.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freak%20show. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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