Definition

1. Noun:

   • An electronic device that shows information visually: A screen or monitor that presents data, images, or video.
   • An open exhibition or public showing: The act of presenting something for people to see.
   • A demonstration or outward show of a feeling or quality: Behavior that publicly reveals an emotion, attitude, or characteristic.
   • A visual representation of something: An arrangement of items or images designed to be seen.
   • Something shown to the public: An object or collection of objects presented for viewing, often in a museum or store.

2. Verb:

   • To show or make visible: To present something to view.
   • To exhibit openly: To put something on public show.
   • To demonstrate or reveal a quality or feeling: To behave in a way that makes an internal state apparent to others.
   • To attract attention by conspicuous presentation: Often used in biology regarding animals showing body parts.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The new smartphone has a very bright display. (Referring to the screen)
  • The fireworks were a spectacular display. (Referring to a public show)
  • Her calm demeanor was a remarkable display of self-control. (Referring to a demonstration of a quality)
  • The museum has a fascinating display of ancient pottery. (Referring to a collection shown to the public)

• Verb:

  • The museum will display the artist's paintings next month.
  • The peacock displays its colorful feathers to attract a mate.
  • He displayed great kindness to the stranger.
  • Store windows display the latest fashions.

Advanced Usage

• "On display": Being shown publicly for people to see.
  • The rare diamond is now on display at the gallery.
• "Make a display of": To show something openly, often to attract attention or admiration.
  • He made a great display of his wealth.
• "Display behavior" (Biology/Zoology): Specific, often ritualized actions used for communication.
  • The bird's mating display involves a complex dance.

Variants and Related Words

• Display case (n): A cabinet with glass sides for showing objects.
• Display window (n): A store window where goods are shown.
• Digital display (n): An electronic screen showing information in numbers or graphics.
• Display ad (n): A visually prominent advertisement in print or online media.

Synonyms

• Exhibit (v/n): To show publicly; something shown publicly.
• Show (v/n): To cause or allow to be seen; a spectacle or presentation.
• Demonstrate (v): To show clearly by giving proof or evidence.
• Reveal (v): To make previously unknown information visible or known.
• Presentation (n): The process of showing something.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Display" is not commonly used with particles to form phrasal verbs. Its meaning is typically conveyed directly or with prepositions like "on.")

Related Idioms

• A dazzling/brave/gaudy display: Used to describe a show that is very impressive, courageous, or overly bright/showy.
  • The military parade was a dazzling display of precision.
• A display of force/power: A show intended to warn or intimidate by demonstrating strength.
  • The naval ships conducted a display of force near the border.

Noun

1. an electronic device that represents information in visual form
2. exhibiting openly in public view
   • a display of courage
3. behavior that makes your feelings public
   • a display of emotion
4. a visual representation of something
5. something shown to the public
   • the museum had many exhibits of oriental art
6. something intended to communicate a particular impression
   • made a display of strength
   • a show of impatience
   • a good show of looking interested

Verb

1. attract attention by displaying some body part or posing; of animals
2. to show, make visible or apparent
   • The Metropolitan Museum is exhibiting Goya's works this month
   • Why don't you show your nice legs and wear shorter skirts?
   • National leaders will have to display the highest skills of statesmanship