demonstrate

verb

dem·​on·​strate ˈde-mən-ˌstrāt How to pronounce demonstrate (audio)
demonstrated; demonstrating

transitive verb

1
: to show clearly
demonstrate a willingness to cooperate
must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in order to pass the class
The police demonstrated calm restraint during the riot.
2
a
: to prove or make clear by reasoning or evidence
crowded classrooms that demonstrate the need for more schools in the area
b
: to illustrate and explain especially with many examples
demonstrate a procedure
3
: to show or prove the value or efficiency of to a prospective buyer
demonstrate a new kitchen gadget

intransitive verb

: to make a demonstration
Allow me to demonstrate.
crowds demonstrating for the right to vote
Choose the Right Synonym for demonstrate

show, manifest, evidence, evince, demonstrate mean to reveal outwardly or make apparent.

show is the general term but sometimes implies that what is revealed must be gained by inference from acts, looks, or words.

careful not to show his true feelings

manifest implies a plainer, more immediate revelation.

manifested musical ability at an early age

evidence suggests serving as proof of the actuality or existence of something.

a commitment evidenced by years of loyal service

evince implies a showing by outward marks or signs.

evinced not the slightest fear

demonstrate implies showing by action or by display of feeling.

demonstrated their approval by loud applause

Examples of demonstrate in a Sentence

Each student must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in order to pass the class. Employees must demonstrate competence in certain skills before they can work independently. The medication will not be marketed until it is demonstrated to be safe. The latest test results clearly demonstrate that the vaccine works. The group's failed efforts demonstrate how difficult it is to convince people to change their habits. They have demonstrated a willingness to negotiate. Several people will be demonstrating traditional farming techniques. The instructor demonstrated the correct procedure for pruning a tree. Would you mind demonstrating how the machine works?
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Consideration centers on respect demonstrated by anticipating others' wants and needs. Aparna Rae, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 Here, though, Kim demonstrates some good things come in tubes, such as his gochujang red pepper paste. Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 1 May 2025 So the price action in the handle has demonstrated weaker momentum. David Keller, CNBC, 1 May 2025 In her ruling, the judge stated that the ACLU of Idaho had demonstrated a strong likelihood of success on several key claims, including that the new offenses established by the law may violate the U.S. Constitution's due process clause. Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for demonstrate

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin dēmonstrātus, past participle of dēmonstrāre "to draw attention to, indicate, describe, show," from dē- de- + monstrāre "to point out, show" — more at muster entry 2

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 21a

Time Traveler
The first known use of demonstrate was in 1538

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Demonstrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demonstrate. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

demonstrate

verb
dem·​on·​strate ˈdem-ən-ˌstrāt How to pronounce demonstrate (audio)
demonstrated; demonstrating
1
: to show clearly
2
a
: to prove or make clear by reasoning or evidence
b
: to illustrate and explain especially with examples
3
: to show publicly the good qualities of a product
demonstrate a new car
4
: to make a public display (as of feeling or military force)
citizens demonstrated in protest

Medical Definition

demonstrate

verb
dem·​on·​strate ˈdem-ən-ˌstrāt How to pronounce demonstrate (audio)
demonstrated; demonstrating

transitive verb

1
: to show clearly
demonstrated the artery arteriographically
2
: to prove or make clear by reasoning or evidence

More from Merriam-Webster on demonstrate

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