Definition of show

Short definition: The word show means to display or explain something so others can see or understand it. The word show is also used to refer to an event or program meant for watching or entertainment.

Looking for a clear and practical explanation of the word show? The word show is used in many everyday situations, from physically displaying something, to expressing emotions, proving facts, entertaining an audience, or making something visible or understandable. Below, each meaning is explained in a relaxed, real-life way, with long examples that reflect how people actually use the word.

Verb forms: show, shows, showing, showed, shown
Related: showing n., showcase n., showy adj.
Syllable: show

1. (Verb) To let someone see something by pointing to it, holding it up, or making it visible.
   She showed him the photos on her phone, slowly scrolling so he could understand the full story behind each moment.
   He showed his ID to the security guard before entering the building.
   Please show me where the problem starts, so I can understand what needs to be fixed.

   Synonyms: display, present, reveal, exhibit, demonstrate, point out, indicate, uncover, expose, illustrate, put on view, bring out
   Antonyms: hide, conceal, cover, obscure, withhold, suppress, mask, keep secret, block, disguise, shelter, veil

2. (Verb) To make something clear or understandable, especially through explanation, evidence, or demonstration.
   The data clearly shows that customer behavior has changed over the past few years.
   Her reaction showed how deeply the news affected her, even though she tried to stay calm.
   This example shows why careful planning is more effective than rushing decisions.

   Synonyms: prove, demonstrate, indicate, reveal, establish, clarify, confirm, illustrate, highlight, signal, make evident, substantiate
   Antonyms: confuse, obscure, contradict, hide evidence, mislead, distort, deny, blur, complicate, mask meaning, conceal truth, falsify

3. (Verb) To express emotions, attitudes, or qualities through behavior, facial expression, or actions.
   He rarely shows his emotions openly, but his silence that day revealed more than words.
   She showed great patience while dealing with the issue, even when others had already lost their temper.
   His actions showed genuine respect, not just polite manners.

   Synonyms: express, display, demonstrate, reveal, convey, reflect, manifest, communicate, exhibit, project, signal, embody
   Antonyms: suppress emotions, hide feelings, conceal traits, mask reactions, bottle up, restrain, repress, deny expression, hold back, disguise intent, fake calm, cover up

4. (Verb) To guide or lead someone to a place or position.
   The assistant showed the visitors to their seats, making sure everyone was comfortable before the meeting began.
   He showed her around the office, explaining how each department worked together.
   Could you show me the way to the exit?

   Synonyms: lead, guide, escort, direct, accompany, usher, conduct, point the way, walk through, orient, take around, assist
   Antonyms: mislead, abandon, ignore, leave alone, confuse directions, lose, desert, turn away, block path, send away, dismiss, misdirect

5. (Noun) A performance, event, or presentation created to entertain or engage an audience.
   We went to a live comedy show that lasted almost two hours and kept everyone laughing.
   The TV show quickly became popular because the characters felt relatable and realistic.
   The fashion show attracted designers and media from around the world.

   Synonyms: performance, program, presentation, event, production, act, exhibition, spectacle, broadcast, feature, display event, stage show
   Antonyms: cancellation, silence, non-event, inactivity, private session, rehearsal, closed practice, off-air period, downtime, absence, shutdown, withdrawal

6. (Noun) A visible display or indication of something, often referring to effort, emotion, or behavior.
   His apology was more than words; it was a genuine show of responsibility.
   The celebration was a public show of unity, meant to strengthen community spirit.
   Her calm response was a quiet show of confidence under pressure.

   Synonyms: display, demonstration, exhibition, expression, indication, manifestation, sign, evidence, proof, outward sign, presentation, reveal
   Antonyms: concealment, secrecy, suppression, denial, hiding, invisibility, restraint, silence, cover-up, absence, withdrawal, nonexpression