n.
Function: noun
Usage: often attrib
Date: 13th century
1 : a demonstrative display <a show of strength>
2 a archaic : outward appearance b : a false semblance : PRETENSE <made a show of friendship> c : a more or less true appearance of something : SIGN d : an impressive display <his role as househusband ⋯ was purely for show ― John Lahr> e : OSTENTATION
3 : CHANCE 2 <gave him a show in spite of his background>
4 : something exhibited especially for wonder or ridicule : SPECTACLE
5 a : a large display or exhibition arranged to arouse interest or stimulate sales <the national auto show > b : a competitive exhibition of animals (as dogs) to demonstrate quality in breeding
6 a : a theatrical presentation b : a radio or television program c : ENTERTAINMENT 3B(1)
7 : ENTERPRISE , AFFAIR <they ran the whole show >
8 : third place at the finish (as of a horse race)
9 often capitalized : the major leagues in baseball ― used with the