display 1 of 2

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
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
In addition, the library is home to a display case showcasing archival items related to Ramirez and the lawsuit. Larry D. Urish, Oc Register, 18 Feb. 2026 More than 30 venues/events have hosted the Colorado Heart Gallery traveling display since 2021. Libby Smith, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026
Verb
In the weeks that followed, the Knicks displayed the consistency Brunson had been chasing, capped by an NBA Cup title that cemented their status as Eastern Conference favorites. Tom Kludt, Vanity Fair, 17 Feb. 2026 That was especially true at Dennis Basso, where brocade dresses were displayed underneath spotlights at the Columbus Citizen foundation, feeling right at home in the Gilded Age mansion’s foyer. Ari Stark, Footwear News, 17 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for display
Recent Examples of Synonyms for display
Noun
  • The order also says officials must continue to properly maintain the site, including the grounds, video monitors, recordings and exhibits.
    Laura Fay, CBS News, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The artist’s sister, Tina Banas, said the exhibit was spectacular.
    Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Last month, security forces brutally suppressed nationwide protests, killing thousands and arresting many more in the deadliest suppression of demonstrations in the history of the Islamic Republic.
    Farida Elsebai, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Antigovernment demonstrations intensify in Iran as mourners hold 40-day memorial ceremonies, while international observers report conflicting death tolls and warn of death sentences for detainees.
    Jon Gambrell, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • On Wednesday in a season baseball opener, Sheffer showed his improved power at the plate, delivering two doubles, while also showing off his speed with an infield single and stolen base.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Emails also show Aidan's apparent close relationship with Terje Rød-Larsen, a high-profile Norwegian diplomat facing scrutiny over contacts with Epstein, along with his wife.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 19 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Similarly, footage showing federal agents killing Alex Pretti revealed the ICU nurse was holding a phone in his right hand, and an officer removing a gun from his back waistband before the shooting.
    Emma Tucker, CNN Money, 15 Feb. 2026
  • During the sentencing hearing that began last week, prosecutors revealed the previously confidential contents of a handwritten note with Thompson's name and the shooting date found at his family's house in the Hedingham subdivision.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Portland’s Damian Lillard joined Bird and Craig Hodges (1990-92) as the only three-time winners with a stunning exhibition in the final round, ending up with a score of 29 — two better than runner-up and 2018 champion Devin Booker of Phoenix.
    Steve Galluzzo, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Being a part of the exhibition at MoMu then, alongside other contemporary designers like Studio Nazzal and Zeid Hijazi, feels particularly remarkable.
    Zoe Whitfield, CNN Money, 14 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Mobility-accessible rooms come with roll-in showers, flashing door knockers, and hearing kits, among other thoughtful amenities.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
  • When Stolz finished and his time flashed on the arena’s video boards, Ning began jumping up and down with other members of China’s team.
    Howard Fendrich, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Set the tone through personal conduct, demonstrating patience, respect, and restraint.
    Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Laid-off reporter Barry Svrluga broke an exclusive about Olympic skier Mikaela Shiffrin’s mother’s cancer diagnosis, demonstrating the value of experienced sports journalism.
    Andrew Dampf, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Balmain unveiled its bottles on the runway in 2024, as did Victoria Beckham.
    James Manso, Footwear News, 14 Feb. 2026
  • The trio is part of the Extreme Sport series that the Swiss watchmaker unveiled in 2024.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on display

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!