show

n.

1. An exhibition

   presentation, exhibit, art exhibit, retrospective, showing, exposition, occurrence, sight, appearance, program, flower show, boat show, home show, dog show, cat show, bringing before the public, bringing to public view; see also display 2.

2. A public performance

   film, play, musical, carnival, representation, burlesque, production, appearance, concert, act, pageant, spectacle, light show, entertainment; see also comedy, drama 1, movie.

3. Pretense

   sham, make believe, semblance; see pretense 1, 2.

for show

get<strong> or </strong>put the show on the road*

stand<strong> or </strong>have a show*

steal the show*

show

v.

1. To display

   display, exhibit, manifest, present, expose, flaunt; see also display 1.

2. To explain

   reveal, tell, explicate; see explain.

3. To demonstrate

   attest, determine, confirm; see prove.

4. To convince

   teach, prove to, persuade; see convince.

5. To grant

   confer, bestow, dispense; see give 1.

6. To indicate

   register, note, point; see designate 1, record 1.

show implies putting or bringing something into view so that it can be seen or looked at show us the garden; to display something is to spread it out so that it is shown to advantage jewelry displayed on a sales counter; exhibit implies prominent display, often for the purpose of attracting public attention or inspection to exhibit products at a fair; expose implies the laying open and displaying of something, often unpleasant or objectionable, that has been covered or concealed this bathing suit exposes the scar, to expose his shady dealings; flaunt implies an ostentatious, impudent, or defiant display to flaunt one's riches, vices, etc.