display 1 of 2

1
as in exhibit
a public showing of objects of interest a display of paintings by masters of French Impressionism

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in demonstration
an outward and often exaggerated indication of something abstract (as a feeling) for effect a display of sympathy that was totally phony

Synonyms & Similar Words

display

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word display different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of display are exhibit, expose, flaunt, parade, and show. While all these words mean "to present so as to invite notice or attention," display emphasizes putting in a position where others may see to advantage.

display sale items

When is exhibit a more appropriate choice than display?

While the synonyms exhibit and display are close in meaning, exhibit stresses putting forward prominently or openly.

exhibit paintings at a gallery

Where would expose be a reasonable alternative to display?

The synonyms expose and display are sometimes interchangeable, but expose suggests bringing forth from concealment and displaying.

sought to expose the hypocrisy of the town fathers

When is it sensible to use flaunt instead of display?

Although the words flaunt and display have much in common, flaunt suggests a shameless, boastful, often offensive parading.

nouveaux riches flaunting their wealth

When could parade be used to replace display?

The meanings of parade and display largely overlap; however, parade implies an ostentatious or arrogant displaying.

parading their piety for all to see

When would show be a good substitute for display?

In some situations, the words show and display are roughly equivalent. However, show implies no more than enabling another to see or examine.

showed her snapshots to the whole group

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of display
Noun
It will be followed by a concert at the Ellipse in front of the White House and then a fireworks display scheduled for 9:45 p.m. ET. June 14, CBS News, 14 June 2025 Informative displays highlighting facts about Juneteenth will be placed throughout the park. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2025
Verb
First displayed in 2023 at the LUMA Foundation in Arles, France, the four hundred and fifty-four images hang on large metal lattices that stand tall beneath the Armory’s lofty ceilings. Max Norman, New Yorker, 13 June 2025 The make-up of this year’s squad for the Under-21 Euros is slightly different, but the aim is similar: to win, and display why they are highly rated along the way. Art De Roché, New York Times, 13 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for display
Recent Examples of Synonyms for display
Noun
  • The Waukegan Public Library has periodic art exhibits.
    Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2025
  • The extension service’s master gardeners will show off a caterpillar display, and the master naturalists will have multiple exhibits.
    Beth Lipoff, Kansas City Star, 11 June 2025
Noun
  • Most demonstrations were peaceful, particularly during the day, but some turned into violent riots, resulting in numerous arrests.
    Annabella Rosciglione, The Washington Examiner, 19 June 2025
  • Dueling demonstrations, wars, immigration, inflation — any number of issues grab our attention daily.
    Anastasia G Mcateer, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 June 2025
Verb
  • The release did not specify the date of the arrest, but Ada County Jail records show that Teague was booked Thursday evening.
    Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 14 June 2025
  • However, even a cursory comparison to the air forces of Iran’s neighbors shows how far behind Iran’s once mighty air force has truly fallen, irrespective of what Vahedi would have had his domestic audiences believe before Friday.
    Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
Verb
  • Machine Gun Kelly has finally revealed the name of his infant daughter with Megan Fox, nearly three months after the on-and-off couple welcomed their first child together.
    Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 17 June 2025
  • Erin Andrews, a sports broadcaster and co-founder of women’s apparel company WEAR, revealed her experiences in the spotlight.
    Callum Sutherland, Time, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • The exhibition will feature original pieces and lithographs, available for purchase.
    Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 June 2025
  • And the fact that Venice hosts the world’s most prestigious contemporary art exhibition, the Art Biennale (next edition is 2026) is reason enough to visit.
    Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
Verb
  • Steve’s first instinct is almost always to say something awful or unkind, and then Murray’s eyes flash a desire to take it back.
    Joe Reid, Vulture, 12 June 2025
  • Goldberg flashed a confused look after Behar's admission, as the audience applauded and conservative panelist Alyssa Farah Griffin laughed while segueing into her own point.
    Joey Nolfi Published, EW.com, 11 June 2025
Verb
  • What’s happening Medieval Fair for all ages: The Society for Creative Anachronism will be demonstrating different arts, craftsmanship, fighting styles, and more from the Middle Ages.
    Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 June 2025
  • Your contrarian takes demonstrate independent thinking that can't be faked or prompted into existence.
    Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
Verb
  • The temporary closure comes months after French President Emmanuel Macron unveiled a 10-year plan to revitalize the cultural behemoth and ultimately save it from ruin, brought on by outdated infrastructure.
    Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 17 June 2025
  • This morning at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Forbes unveiled its first-ever Accessibility 100 list, highlighting the biggest innovators and impact-makers in the field of accessibility for people with disabilities.
    Forbes Press Releases, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 25 Jun. 2025.

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