no-show

1 of 2

noun

ˈnō-ˌshō How to pronounce no-show (audio)
-ˈshō
1
: a person who reserves space (as on an airplane) but neither uses nor cancels the reservation
2
: a person who buys a ticket but does not attend
broadly : a person who is expected but who does not show up
3
: failure to show up

no-show

2 of 2

adjective

: of, relating to, or being a job for which the holder is paid but performs few duties or is rarely present for work

Examples of no-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.
Noun
And the Silver chief financial officer, who was expected to be in court with documents, was a no-show. David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2025 Royal experts told Fox News Digital that the no-show is part of Kate’s plan to prioritize her health and complete public engagements on a case-by-case basis. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2025
Adjective
After ending their season with an NIT no-show against UCF, the Gators face a roster makeover and push to become one of the next quick turnarounds in college basketball. Orlando Sentinel Podcasts, Orlando Sentinel, 20 Mar. 2023 The concept of the no-show summer job was common knowledge at least as far back as the 1950s. Bob Ryan, BostonGlobe.com, 18 Mar. 2023 See All Example Sentences for no-show

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1819, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Adjective

1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of no-show was in 1819

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“No-show.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/no-show. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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