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

Cassie, there is so much going on in the finale’s big climactic showdown scene. — Derek Lawrence, HollywoodReporter, 19 Aug. 2026

California was not host to that type of showdown this year, and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra, though progressive by national standards, was viewed by many left-leaning voters as a safer or more moderate primary choice. — Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026

Sometimes the oppression is more personal, as in Il Fuoco Che Ti Port Dentro, where Antonio’s larger-than-life mother visits at Christmas and sets off a showdown with her successful son. — David Bloom, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Imagineering revealed new details about the backstory for the Avengers Infinity Defense attraction that will feature a showdown with King Thanos across the multiverse. — Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 16 Aug. 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