as in revels
to engage in attention-getting playful or boisterous behavior
the gymnast was showboating for the cameras when she lost her balance and fell
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for showboats
Noun
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The Smithsonian Museum estimates that one in four cowboys was Black, working alongside Hispanic vaqueros and Native Americans to help settle the West.—
Bo Evans,
CBS News,
12 Jan. 2026 -
Since 1896, the event celebrating Western culture, cowboys and agriculture has brought millions of people to Fort Worth from around the world.—
Brayden Garcia
January 8,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
8 Jan. 2026
Verb
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His multicourse omakase shows off the chef’s restrained minimalist Edomae style and love of aged fish.—
Bloomberg,
Mercury News,
13 Jan. 2026
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Finally, Florida cranberry (Hibiscus sabdariffa) shows off stunning, edible red calyces that remain once flowers have fallen and can be used in a variety of recipes for baked goods, stews, chutneys, or simply for making tea.—
Joshua Siskin,
Oc Register,
8 Nov. 2025
Verb
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But if your transmission acts up or your steering system goes haywire, car insurance won't help you.—
Alora Bopray,
USA Today,
5 Dec. 2025
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In the cold and austere German winter (a far cry from Dakar’s physical and cultural warmth), an anxious Nourou acts up outside a hotel and is accosted by a Polish security guard, setting off a minor chain reaction in which Maja intervenes on his behalf, much to his chagrin.—
Siddhant Adlakha,
Variety,
28 Sep. 2025
Verb
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China’s leaders made boosting demand at home their top economic priority in 2026, a reminder of Beijing’s domestic challenges even as its export engine roars ahead.—
J.D. Capelouto,
semafor.com,
8 Dec. 2025
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Each year, the town of 4,400 people roars to life with its seasonal bash, ushering in the winter to come with joy, laughter, and plenty of mulled wine.—
Stacey Leasca,
Travel + Leisure,
8 Dec. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Showboats.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/showboats. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026.
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