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noun British English pronunciation: show /ʃəʊ/ 
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singularshow
pluralshows
  1. 1
    [countable] a performance, especially in a theatre

    She had tickets to see the new show at the Aldwych Theatre.

    The show features three new actors in the main roles.

    the show opens (=appears for the first time):

    She walked out three days before the show was due to open.

    steal the show (=be the most impressive performer):

    She only had a small part but she stole the show.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show
    1. a.
      a television or radio programme

      It’s the funniest comedy show on television.

      host/present a show:

      I listened to a Radio 2 show hosted by Paul Jones.

      a quiz/game show (=in which people answer questions and win prizes):

      They spend their days watching game shows.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show
    2. b.
      an exhibition

      a fashion/flower show

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show
    3. c.
      informal any type of event or occasion

      The interview turned out to be quite a show.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show
  2. 2
    [singular] something that you do in order to make people realize what your opinions or intentions are
    a show of force/strength:

    The attack was clearly intended as a show of force.

    In a rare show of unity, both Catholic and Protestant leaders appeared together at yesterday’s peace rally.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show
    1. a.
      [singular/uncountable] an occasion when you pretend to have particular feelings
      put on/make a show of something:

      They made a show of affection for the sake of the children.

      for show (=in order to give a false appearance):

      The kisses and warm words were clearly just for show.

      Thesaurus entry for this meaning of  showThesaurus entry for this meaning of show

phrases

This is the British English definition of show. View American English definition of show.

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