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
  • 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
  • The company provided firearms for a live demonstration to the Mountain States Tactical Officers Association in Montana, the agency posted online.
    Alex Brizee, Idaho Statesman, 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Surprising Loyalty and Stability Despite their reputation for independence and skepticism, Gen X demonstrates remarkable workplace loyalty compared to younger generations.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025
  • 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
Verb
  • 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
  • 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

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Cite this Entry

“Display.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/display. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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