showdown

noun

show·​down ˈshō-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce showdown (audio)
Synonyms of showdownnext
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
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.
San Francisco 49ers Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams and receiver Ricky Pearsall missed the Week 18 showdown for the division title against the Seattle Seahawks with injuries. CBS News, 4 Jan. 2026 Harkey, a 6-foot-6, 327-pound redshirt senior, is prepping for a Friday night showdown with Indiana — and another former CU player, the Hoosiers’ Kahlil Benson — in one College Football Playoff semifinal. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 4 Jan. 2026 This beloved tradition draws millions of viewers and sets the stage for the football showdown that follows. Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 1 Jan. 2026 California has delayed its cancellation of thousands of commercial driver’s licenses held by migrants, setting it up for another showdown with Washington. Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for showdown

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of showdown was in 1870

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Showdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showdown. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

showdown

noun
show·​down -ˌdau̇n How to pronounce showdown (audio)
: the test of strength that finally settles a dispute

More from Merriam-Webster on showdown

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