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
Tyson’s vulnerable side was also on display while speaking about his daughter dying tragically, God’s plan for him, and speaking about his mentor Cus D’Amato, which quite literally brought him to tears. Malina Saval, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026 In this episode, her physicality as Patricia is on full display. Jen Chaney, Vulture, 13 May 2026
Verb
When using a pass, students leave their Chromebooks facing the teacher and displaying the pass, and hall monitors hold lists and photos of students out on a pass that include the remaining time. Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026 In this image taken from video footage provided by KGNS, Union Pacific signage is displayed at a rail yard in Laredo, Texas, Sunday, May 10, 2026. Kiki Intarasuwan, CBS News, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for display
Recent Examples of Synonyms for display
Noun
  • This cultural event features a weekend full of authentic Greek cuisine, live music and cultural exhibits.
    Kayla Rivera, AJC.com, 12 May 2026
  • Below, Variety presents an exclusive set of images from the exhibit, including handwritten lyrics, original artwork, tour memorabilia and photos.
    Jem Aswad, Variety, 12 May 2026
Noun
  • The mobile showroom itself is designed to replicate a traditional retail environment, with full-size mattress displays and demonstration tools.
    Wyles Daniel, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2026
  • Another turns downtown into Taste of Black Harrisburg, with food vendors, live mural painting, music, comedy, and chef demonstrations taking over the block.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 14 May 2026
Verb
  • At a press conference Wednesday announcing the bill, lawmakers cited studies showing that the cost of playing youth sports has risen by 46% in five years, with many families paying more than $5,000 per child for a single season.
    Kenny Jacoby, USA Today, 14 May 2026
  • Kelly, a four-year starter for South Lake, showed his ability to run the football and gained over 60 yards in the first game.
    Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 May 2026
Verb
  • At the time, makeup artist Jazzy B revealed that the party included toys, slides and even a ball pit in several posts shared on Instagram.
    Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026
  • The marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub (and Natura Bisse amenities) is separated from the bedroom by a set of wooden shutters that can be opened to reveal the room and the outdoor view beyond, if desired.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • Despite strong critical support, it was allotted limited showtimes and minimal exhibition backing — a situation its makers came to see as emblematic of wider structural failures confronting Indian indie cinema.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 May 2026
  • Important people speaking at exhibition openings will tell you that art is about communication.
    Sebastian Smee, The Atlantic, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • Archival black-and-white photos tracing the history of sculpture—both works that inspired Brancusi along with those influenced by him—flash on the screen before the music picks back up.
    Leigh Anne Miller, ARTnews.com, 14 May 2026
  • The stars, who have worked together on several of the house’s campaigns, warmly embraced and then immediately started gabbing as cameras flashed around them and fans clamored to get the perfect shot.
    Katie Abel, Footwear News, 14 May 2026
Verb
  • Malo Gusto is athletically capable of being the Frimpong at Chelsea, but has not demonstrated the same level of aptitude in front of goal.
    Liam Twomey, New York Times, 17 May 2026
  • The United States has already demonstrated this with export controls on advanced chips, restricting which nations can develop certain AI capabilities.
    David Liberman, Fortune, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • As the summer travel season approaches, a new safe play park was unveiled Saturday at Howe Community Park in Arden Arcade.
    Corey Schmidt, Sacbee.com, 16 May 2026
  • Now the countdown to the official start of summer begins — and Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled his own travel plans.
    Grace Miserocchi, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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