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

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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
Politicos and hopefuls, seeing others’ pins on display, brought theirs in as a form of competition. A.d. Quig, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2026 This might have been the ultimate display of perseverance by Riley, the Arisons and the Heat brain trust. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 17 June 2026
Verb
Use these $10 vases to display plants or flowers on your bookshelves, or store your bookmarks and stationery inside. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 June 2026 After their meal, Will and Jada displayed subtle PDA, linking arms while exiting the eatery. Christina Perrier, InStyle, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for display
Recent Examples of Synonyms for display
Noun
  • As a concept, the trucks seem to be inspired by the Freedom Train of the 1976 bicentennial, which carried founding documents and other historical exhibits around the country.
    Christopher Hooks, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026
  • The exhibit unfolded in partnership with Home of Football, a new cultural destination dedicated to the globally beloved game, which opened in the heart of New York’s design district between Chelsea and Hudson Yards on Monday.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • Investigators have claimed Mangione was motivated by anger toward the health insurance industry, leading to numerous sympathizers who expressed their own disapproval for the health insurance industry in demonstrations and nearby court hearings after Mangione’s arrest.
    Antonio Pequeño IV, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
  • The demonstrations follow weeks of violent xenophobic attacks and growing pressure on businesses to hire only South Africans.
    Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • Moderate exercise has been shown to improve learning among students from elementary school through young adulthood, and the effects on attention, memory and executive function are well-documented, pediatricians say.
    Cierra Morgan, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026
  • On the final stop on the tour, the Markley people wanted to show the emergency generators that neighbors have complained about.
    David Wade, CBS News, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • Now Reid, dressed in black with his chest partially exposed beneath an open jacket revealing a scar, stepped on stage and into the role of Lestat in front of the audience.
    Precious Fondren, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026
  • The first photos showed her in a black lace bodysuit that revealed her bra and micro mini shorts below.
    Meg Walters, InStyle, 20 June 2026
Noun
  • Tavares Strachan, 'Bar Room,' acquired by Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti in the fall of 2025, will permanently remain beyond the dates of the exhibition.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
  • The exhibition continues through the summer as part of the district’s broader cultural offerings during the World Cup period.
    J.M. Banks June 20, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • The height was capped at exactly 189 feet, due to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations that structures 190 feet or higher, which has since been modified to 200 feet or higher, must require a flashing red light for incoming aircraft.
    Ana Maria Soler, CBS News, 18 June 2026
  • Court records show he was also charged with failure to stop at a stop sign or flashing red light, failure to heed to a siren, a window tinting violation, and having a fake or altered tag or registration.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • Ukraine’s ability to strike military production facilities, fuel depots, ammunition storage sites and critical infrastructure hundreds of miles from the front lines has demonstrated a remarkable evolution in its strategic capabilities.
    Hunter LaCroix, Baltimore Sun, 20 June 2026
  • To earn belief, leaders must protect early adopters, welcome critical feedback, and demonstrate value through real-world examples.
    Julie Averill, Forbes.com, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • Artists Equity By the time Dunkin’ unveiled Carpenter’s Brown Sugar Shakin’ Espresso, more than 10 million users had already devoured the Instagram and TikTok teaser videos.
    Danielle Directo-Meston, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2026
  • Both pieces were only unveiled at Watches and Wonders in April.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 20 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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