/ ˈdemənstreɪt; NAmE / verb
1.
demonstrate sth (to sb) to show sth clearly by giving proof or evidence :
[ v that ]
These results demonstrate convincingly that our campaign is working.
[ vn ]
Let me demonstrate to you some of the difficulties we are facing.
[ v wh- ]
His sudden departure had demonstrated how unreliable he was.
[ vn to inf ]
The theories were demonstrated to be false.
[ vn that ]
It has been demonstrated that this drug is effective.
2.
[ vn ] to show by your actions that you have a particular quality, feeling or opinion
SYN display :
You need to demonstrate more self-control.
We want to demonstrate our commitment to human rights.
3.
demonstrate sth (to sb) to show and explain how sth works or how to do sth :
[ vn ]
Her job involves demonstrating new educational software.
[also v wh- ]
4.
[ v ] demonstrate (against sth) | demonstrate (in favour / support of sth) to take part in a public meeting or march, usually as a protest or to show support for sth
SYN protest :
students demonstrating against the war
They are demonstrating in favour of free higher education.
••
WORD ORIGIN
mid 16th cent. (in the sense point out ): from Latin demonstrat- pointed out, from the verb demonstrare .