show business

noun

: the arts, occupations, and businesses (such as theater, movies, and television) that comprise the entertainment industry

Examples of show business in a Sentence

She has been in show business for over 30 years.

actors trying to break into show business

Recent Examples on the Web

Nina Shipman, who came from a prominent show business family to star alongside Fred MacMurray in The Oregon Trail and step in for Grandpa in a ploy to make Lily jealous on one of the wackiest episodes of The Munsters, has died. — Mike Barnes, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 2026

One who can show business competence and still communicate like a regular person. — Candace Buckner, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2026

Dolly Parton's success in show business gave wings to her natural generosity. — Scott Simon, NPR, 29 Aug. 2026

The great Gladys Knight will take a step back from the relentless touring that’s marked her 75 years in show business. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for show business

• agribusiness
• nonbusiness

Kids Definition

show business

noun

: the arts, occupations, and companies that make up the entertainment industry