display 1 of 2

1
as in exhibit
a public showing of objects of interest a display of paintings by masters of French Impressionism

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in demonstration
an outward and often exaggerated indication of something abstract (as a feeling) for effect a display of sympathy that was totally phony

Synonyms & Similar Words

display

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of display are exhibit, expose, flaunt, parade, and show. While all these words mean "to present so as to invite notice or attention," display emphasizes putting in a position where others may see to advantage.

display sale items

When is exhibit a more appropriate choice than display?

While the synonyms exhibit and display are close in meaning, exhibit stresses putting forward prominently or openly.

exhibit paintings at a gallery

Where would expose be a reasonable alternative to display?

The synonyms expose and display are sometimes interchangeable, but expose suggests bringing forth from concealment and displaying.

sought to expose the hypocrisy of the town fathers

When is it sensible to use flaunt instead of display?

Although the words flaunt and display have much in common, flaunt suggests a shameless, boastful, often offensive parading.

nouveaux riches flaunting their wealth

When could parade be used to replace display?

The meanings of parade and display largely overlap; however, parade implies an ostentatious or arrogant displaying.

parading their piety for all to see

When would show be a good substitute for display?

In some situations, the words show and display are roughly equivalent. However, show implies no more than enabling another to see or examine.

showed her snapshots to the whole group

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 display
Noun
The Depardieu shtick — his public persona as a crude, working-class thug — was on full display. Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 2 Apr. 2025 On Monday, the Naval Academy mistakenly removed photos of distinguished female Jewish graduates from a display case in preparation for Hegseth’s visit. Cheyanne M. Daniels, The Hill, 2 Apr. 2025
Verb
If a dog is being disruptive, such as barking (with the exception of barking to alert to something like a medical condition), wandering or displaying aggression, the management of a restaurant or other business can legally ask that the dog be removed from the premises. R. Eric Thomas, Denver Post, 13 Apr. 2025 This wide array of automobile excellence displays how the automotive industry has transformed from usage to power, comfort, luxury or efficiency. Marc D. Grasso, New York Daily News, 13 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for display
Recent Examples of Synonyms for display
Noun
  • Music fans will be able to see them and many other priceless artifacts from Parton's career at a new exhibit coming soon to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
    Adam Tamburin, Axios, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The exhibit, featuring papier-maché sculptures and fiber installations made with paper waste, will run Saturday, April 26, through Saturday, July 19.
    La Jolla Light, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Yet, many peaceful protestors have faced severe repercussions for their participation in demonstrations, including being fired from their jobs and doxxing — where personal information is shared publicly to incite harassment and in some cases death threats.
    Nikki Morse, Baltimore Sun, 16 Mar. 2025
  • More than 80 demonstrations are slated for Saturday and more than 70 are planned through the end of April, according to the Tesla Takedown website.
    Auzinea Bacon, CNN, 15 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Monday's filing showed the investigations began April 1 and the tariffs would be imposed under the authority of Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which grants the president such power to protect national security.
    John Bacon, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Video surveillance of the incident shows that the suspect climbed over a fence before breaking into the governor’s home through the piano room windows and throwing in an incendiary device, according to the affidavit.
    Solcyré Burga, Time, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Harry has Kiko take a look at the crate's contents, which are now revealed to us in all their gory glory.
    Matt Cabral, EW.com, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Gen Zer Returning From 10-Week Trip Shocked At What ‘Horrific’ Rib Pain Was By Jack Beresford Senior Life and Trends Reporter Newsweek Is A Trust Project Member news article 0 A woman has revealed how a sudden pain in her ribs while in college led to a life-changing discovery.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The spot plays host to exhibitions, poetry readings and performances.
    Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 11 Apr. 2025
  • His Círculo de Bellas Artes, a cultural hub that still hosts exhibitions and film screenings, is also home to Azotea, one of the best rooftops in town (and also serving food and drinks).
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 11 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The typically more boring corner of Wall Street has been flashing signals of stress this week that have been serious enough to demand attention from both Wall Street and President Trump.
    Anne Marie Drummond Lee, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • With bond markets flashing warning signs while Americans sleep, investors risk missing a major shift.
    Joel Shulman, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • About 3,000 protesters demonstrated Khalil's detention in Lower Manhattan on Monday afternoon, police said.
    Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025
  • The latest developments have once again demonstrated the shifting alliances of Syria's multisided civil war that has been subject to competing geopolitical interests among foreign powers.
    Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The Cannes Film Festival will reveal the bulk of its Official Selection in a press conference in Paris on Thursday, while Directors’ Fortnight will unveil its line-up on April 15.
    Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 6 Apr. 2025
  • As if on schedule, brands from across the internet have begun unveiling new loafer styles — and slashing prices on fan favorites — just in time for the season.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 6 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

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