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Definition of shownext
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as in to steer
to point out the way for (someone) especially from a position in front showed them the way to get home

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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show

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noun

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as in display
an outward and often exaggerated indication of something abstract (as a feeling) for effect the children made a show of disgust when confronted with asparagus

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of show are display, exhibit, expose, flaunt, and parade. While all these words mean "to present so as to invite notice or attention," show implies no more than enabling another to see or examine.

showed her snapshots to the whole group

When is it sensible to use display instead of show?

The synonyms display and show are sometimes interchangeable, but display emphasizes putting in a position where others may see to advantage.

display sale items

When would exhibit be a good substitute for show?

The meanings of exhibit and show largely overlap; however, exhibit stresses putting forward prominently or openly.

exhibit paintings at a gallery

When might expose be a better fit than show?

The words expose and show can be used in similar contexts, but expose suggests bringing forth from concealment and displaying.

sought to expose the hypocrisy of the town fathers

When can flaunt be used instead of show?

While the synonyms flaunt and show are close in meaning, flaunt suggests a shameless, boastful, often offensive parading.

nouveaux riches flaunting their wealth

Where would parade be a reasonable alternative to show?

Although the words parade and show have much in common, parade implies an ostentatious or arrogant displaying.

parading their piety for all to see

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 show
Verb
Video of the confrontation showed Rummler seemingly attempting to intervene in Seitz’s arrest when Rummler is seriously injured by the less than lethal round. Sean Emery, Oc Register, 15 Jan. 2026 Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui posted a video to X over the weekend, showing a dazzling view of auroras spreading like a tall blanket over the darkened Earth below. Josh Dinner, Space.com, 15 Jan. 2026
Noun
Simons, though, was the star of the show, posting a stat line seen just a handful of times in franchise history. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 16 Jan. 2026 Away from light pollution, stargazers can expect a show of as many as 100 to 120 shooting stars per hour. Michael D'estries, Travel + Leisure, 16 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for show
Recent Examples of Synonyms for show
Verb
  • With sturdy construction, ample shelf space, and glass doors, china cabinets are excellent for storing and displaying delicate china sets, trinkets, decorative plates, heirloom decor, and more.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 Jan. 2026
  • And yet, both within and outside the store, the American flag is prominently displayed.
    Liz Rothaus Bertrand, Charlotte Observer, 7 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Beyond the single chamber near the cables, the unredacted plans also revealed a network of 208 secret rooms beneath the diplomatic site.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 14 Jan. 2026
  • Authorities have not revealed any motive for the killing, but court documents indicate the case has significant ties to local drug sales.
    Tom Olsen, Twin Cities, 14 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • However, that land proved to be insufficient for the expansion plans, prompting the purchase of an additional 900-acre lot.
    Dylan Butts,Emily Tan, CNBC, 16 Jan. 2026
  • In fact, Bella Hadid has repeat-worn the style with many off-duty looks, proving that the timeless silhouette adds an outfit-elevating touch.
    Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 16 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Several Venezuela residents told TIME that the fear of what might be discovered on their phone at a checkpoint has guided their behavior in the days since Maduro's ouster.
    Brian Bennett, Time, 13 Jan. 2026
  • Since launch, mission teams have guided the observatory steadily toward L1.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 13 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • That means the rider can steer the elephant, but only if the elephant is willing.
    Gwen Faulkenberry, Arkansas Online, 15 Jan. 2026
  • Back on the bridge, captain Nærbø steers the Polaris through the same fjords Norwegian ships have navigated for generations.
    Ryan Craggs, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • These encounters appear to act like a refueling system, delivering fresh gas that can keep the black hole quietly active for long periods.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The video also appeared to depict the officers did not take immediate steps to ensure that Good received emergency medical care after the shooting took place.
    Sarah N. Lynch, CBS News, 10 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The demonstrations intensified after a federal officer shot a Venezuelan man accused of fleeing a traffic stop and attacking an agent, federal officials said.
    Christopher Cann, USA Today, 16 Jan. 2026
  • While local law enforcement officers have not actively taken part in immigration enforcement operations in the city, they have often been dispatched to the scenes of critical incidents and demonstrations to ensure public safety.
    Danya Gainor, CNN Money, 15 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The prosecutor's office said a 16-year-old boy from Sayreville was arrested and charged with acts of juvenile delinquency which if committed by an adult would constitute murder, weapons charges and armed riot.
    Katie Houlis, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
  • And when unlawful acts are committed, hold individuals accountable.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 10 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Show.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/show. Accessed 18 Jan. 2026.

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