showdown

noun

show·​down ˈshō-ˌdau̇n 

1

: the placing of poker hands faceup on the table to determine the winner of a pot

2

: a decisive confrontation or contest

Examples of showdown in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With a conference showdown and bitter rivalry looming next week against Geneva, Batavia decided to open Friday night’s game with some fireworks. — Mike McGraw, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 2026

The simmering tension between Kotler and Tankilevitch help Bezmozgis patiently delay their showdown until, after taking time to instill tension and suspense, two opposing forces collide in a hail of fiery accusations and fisticuffs. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 18 Sep. 2026

One national showdown and several sleeping giants trying to awaken highlight the Week 5 slate in Georgia high school football. — Jack Leo, AJC.com, 18 Sep. 2026

A day after Mayor Brandon Johnson's revised renter protection ordinance got the backing of a key City Council committee, a group of aldermen advanced a dueling proposal, setting up a potential showdown next week. — Todd Feurer, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for showdown

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown

Kids Definition

showdown

noun

show·​down -ˌdau̇n 

: the test of strength that finally settles a dispute