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.
Instead, Sunday’s game, originally billed as a showdown between the first two quarterbacks taken in the 2020 NFL Draft, will be more so about pride than anything else. Miami Herald, 19 Dec. 2025 The two boxers are preparing to face off in their first showdown with each other. Christopher Rudolph, PEOPLE, 18 Dec. 2025 On paper, the Detroit Lions are strong favorites to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday in a showdown of 8-6 teams with playoff hopes. CBS News, 18 Dec. 2025 These teams have played for over 100 years, but meaningful December showdowns have been surprisingly rare. Andy Scholes, CNN Money, 18 Dec. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Showdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showdown. Accessed 22 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

showdown

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

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