Display: meaning, definitions and examples

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display

 

[dɪsˈpleɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer

A display is an electronic device for presenting visual information.

Synonyms

monitor, panel, screen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
display

Use in the context of showcasing or presenting something publicly.

  • The museum had a beautiful display of ancient artifacts
  • His anger was on full display during the meeting
screen

Use for any flat surface on which images and texts are shown, applicable to TVs, computers, mobile devices, and movies.

  • He watched the movie on a big screen
  • The phone screen was cracked due to an accidental drop
monitor

Use when referring to a screen connected to a computer or other devices, often in a professional or technical setting.

  • She bought a new monitor for her desktop computer
  • The teacher watched the students' progress on the monitor
panel

Use when referring to a flat surface on a device that shows information or controls, sometimes used to describe a group of experts.

  • The control panel has many buttons and switches
  • The discussion was led by a panel of experts

Examples of usage

  • The display on my laptop stopped working.
  • The new smartphone has a high-resolution display.
Context #2 | Verb

show

To display means to show something for others to see.

Synonyms

exhibit, present, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
display

Use 'display' when referring to the action of showing something visibly, often in a deliberate and evident manner, like a piece of art, information, or emotions.

  • The museum will display the new painting starting next week.
  • She didn't want to display her feelings openly.
exhibit

Typically applied in formal settings such as museums, galleries, or events, usually for showcasing objects of interest or value.

  • The science fair will exhibit the students' projects on renewable energy.
  • The artist decided to exhibit his work in a local gallery.
present

Often used when introducing or showing something to an audience, typically in an official or organized context, like a presentation or a performance.

  • He will present his research findings at the conference.
  • The company will present their new product in a press release.
show

A versatile word that can be used in many informal or general contexts, implying the act of making something visible or evident.

  • Can you show me how to fix this issue?
  • The teacher will show a video to explain the concept.

Examples of usage

  • She displayed her artwork at the gallery.
  • The museum displays artifacts from ancient civilizations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term has roots in the Old French word 'despleier', meaning to unfold or spread out.
  • The earliest written use of the word in English dates back to the 14th century, primarily in the context of showing banners or flags.
  • Over time, 'display' evolved to encompass a broader range of visual presentations, from art to technology.

Technology

  • In computer terminology, a display refers to the device that shows visual output, such as monitors and screens.
  • Modern displays utilize technologies like LCD, LED, and OLED to provide clearer images and color contrasts.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) systems have advanced displays designed to fully immerse users in 3D environments.

Art

  • Art displays can transform any space, as they're often curated to evoke emotions and provoke thought.
  • Installation art can be designed specifically to utilize the display space, changing how viewers interact with the work.
  • Museums often employ strategic lighting and arrangement for optimal displays, enhancing the viewer's experience.

Psychology

  • Displays can influence perceptions; for example, people react differently to colors, shapes, and layouts in advertising.
  • The way something is displayed can affect decision-making, particularly in retail settings where product visibility matters.
  • Cognitive load theory suggests that the way information is displayed impacts learning and retention in educational settings.

Pop Culture

  • In museum and gallery exhibitions, the way art is displayed can become a topic of critical discussion among artists and curators.
  • Fashion runways are ultimate displays of creativity, where designers showcase their latest collections for public admiration.
  • Television programs often include elaborate set displays to create immersive viewing experiences for audiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "display" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exibir

🇮🇳 प्रदर्शन करना

🇩🇪 anzeigen

🇮🇩 menampilkan

🇺🇦 відображати

🇵🇱 wyświetlać

🇯🇵 表示する (ひょうじする)

🇫🇷 afficher

🇪🇸 mostrar

🇹🇷 göstermek

🇰🇷 표시하다

🇸🇦 عرض

🇨🇿 zobrazit

🇸🇰 zobraziť

🇨🇳 显示 (xiǎnshì)

🇸🇮 prikazati

🇮🇸 sýna

🇰🇿 көрсету

🇬🇪 ჩვენება

🇦🇿 göstərmək

🇲🇽 mostrar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,167, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.