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
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Friday's showdown at Bon Secours Wellness Arena took place five days after UT closed out the regular season with a 72-65 win at Alabama, and the rematch was not that much different than the first matchup. Danny Davis, Austin American Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026 The stakes paled in comparison to the 2024 NBA Finals, but Friday’s primetime showdown between the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics carried a heightened sense of emotion for both teams. Mike Curtis, Dallas Morning News, 6 Mar. 2026 Issa bitterly but regretfully prepares for the inevitable showdown. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 6 Mar. 2026 The Volunteers received a bye into the tournament, so Thursday’s showdown will be their postseason opener. The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Showdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showdown. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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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