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
Known as museum mounting wax, the product comes in a solid block and acts as an adhesive for small objects, preventing them from toppling off their display stands due to an earthquake or accidental bump from kids, pets, or partygoers. Carol Kino, Robb Report, 13 Apr. 2025 Hong Kong art experts Dr Henrietta Tsui-Leung and Alan Lo helped curate the art display. Marisa Garcia, Forbes.com, 13 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
  • The addition to the west will not only include exhibit space, but a new restaurant and theater space whose views open to the south lawn.
    Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 24 Apr. 2025
  • Asawa’s own words posted throughout the exhibit reflect the simplicity of her genius.
    Robert Taylor, Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The events ranged from rallies in midtown Manhattan and in front of the White House to a demonstration at a Massachusetts commemoration marking the start of the American Revolutionary War 250 years ago.
    CBS News, CBS News, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The tactic was inspired by past mass demonstrations against Trump, such as the January 2017 Women's March.
    Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Apr. 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
  • The Left has long been focused on the Vidal–Buckley exchange—nearly ten of the 80 to 90 minutes of the recent PBS documentary was dedicated to it—but never shows or talks about the Panama Canal debate.
    Doug Ducey, National Review, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • In September 2023, another investigation with Webb – an advanced telescope launched in 2021 outfitted with powerful infrared instruments – revealed something more: traces of carbon-bearing molecules in K2-18b's atmosphere, including methane and carbon dioxide.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • While Garcia didn't reveal any other details about the baby, the video showed a close-up of the little one wrapped in a purple swaddle.
    Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 18 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
  • However, Walker has flashed great athleticism in space with incredible range and physicality.
    Josh Kendall, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Lanes split, signs flash, exits appear too soon or too late.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Jack Moorhouse, a 19-year-old midfielder, has demonstrated an ability to pick up the ball and carry it up the pitch at youth level — an attribute sorely lacking among the first-team squad.
    Mark Critchley, New York Times, 19 Apr. 2025
  • That call demonstrates, Parrish said, why fire departments and utility companies are cautious when working a gas leak.
    Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 19 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The system includes a clarifying shampoo, keratin treatment, and nourishing hair mask, each infused with hydrolyzed keratin and antioxidant-rich açaí and cacao to restore hydration, combat oxidative stress, and unveil a noticeably smoother, more manageable texture.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Red Robin also unveils limited-time summer menu In addition to the Bottomless Burger Pass, Red Robin also announced a new limited-time summer menu that will be available beginning April 28 at all U.S. locations and June 9 at locations in Canada.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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