Exhibit: meaning, definitions and examples

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exhibit

 

[ɪɡˈzɪbɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art gallery

A public showing or display, as of artistic or industrial developments.

Synonyms

display, exposition, presentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exhibit

Used when referring to an object or collection of objects on public display in an art gallery or museum. It can also refer to the action of showing or demonstrating a quality, trait, or behavior.

  • The museum will exhibit ancient Egyptian artifacts next month.
  • Her paintings will be exhibited in the local gallery.
display

Commonly used to indicate objects arranged for people to look at or to refer to the act of showing something visually. Can be used broadly in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The store put up a display of their latest products.
  • She always displays great enthusiasm for her work.
exposition

Often used for formal and detailed explanations of a topic or theory. It can also refer to a large public exhibition, but in most cases, it’s more about comprehensive explanations.

  • The professor's exposition of quantum mechanics was very insightful.
  • We attended an exposition on renewable energy technologies.
presentation

Refers to the process of showing or explaining something to an audience, often in a formal setting such as a meeting, lecture, or speech. It’s commonly used in business and academic contexts.

  • He did a great presentation on market trends.
  • The teacher's presentation on the solar system engaged all the students.

Examples of usage

  • The art exhibit at the museum featured famous paintings from the 19th century.
  • The exhibit showcased the latest technological innovations in the industry.
Context #2 | Verb

courtroom

To present or display for public inspection or appraisal; to show or reveal.

Synonyms

demonstrate, present, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exhibit

Typically used in formal contexts, often referring to displaying items in museums, galleries, or exhibitions. Can also mean showing a particular trait or behavior.

  • The museum will exhibit ancient artifacts from Egypt.
  • She began to exhibit signs of nervousness during the interview.
present

Formal context, usually used in business or academic settings. Refers to giving or showing information, ideas, or findings to an audience.

  • She was excited to present her research at the conference.
  • The sales team will present their new strategy to the board.
demonstrate

Often used in educational or instructional settings to show how something works or is done. Can also refer to showing a quality or skill clearly.

  • The teacher will demonstrate the new math technique to the class.
  • He demonstrated his ability to lead under pressure.
show

General use and informal. Can be used in a variety of situations to indicate making something visible or clear to others.

  • He wanted to show his friends the new car he bought.
  • The results show that our efforts were successful.

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer will exhibit the evidence during the trial.
  • The witness was asked to exhibit the contract to the jury.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'exhibit' comes from Latin 'exhibere,' meaning 'to present' or 'to hold forth.'
  • First used in the English language around the early 15th century, its meaning has evolved over time.
  • In the 19th century, 'exhibit' began to be closely associated with art and museum displays.

Cultural Significance

  • Major art exhibits, like the Venice Biennale, are renowned for showcasing contemporary art from around the world.
  • Science exhibits, such as those at the Smithsonian, help educate the public on topics ranging from history to technology.
  • The tradition of holding exhibits dates back to ancient civilizations, where artifacts were displayed to celebrate culture and achievements.

Legal Context

  • In legal settings, the term 'exhibit' refers to evidence presented in court to support a case.
  • Documents or items introduced as exhibits can often become key pieces of evidence affecting case outcomes.
  • The process of submitting exhibits is governed by strict rules to ensure fairness in legal proceedings.

Psychology

  • Interpreting an exhibit can evoke emotional responses, as viewers connect with the displayed pieces on a personal level.
  • Research shows that exhibit design greatly impacts visitor engagement and learning retention.
  • Interactive exhibits can enhance cognitive processing by allowing visitors to participate in their learning experience.

Pop Culture

  • Exhibits related to popular movies or celebrities often draw huge crowds, highlighting their cultural impact.
  • Traveling exhibits, such as the 'Harry Potter: The Exhibition', allow fans worldwide to engage with their favorite stories in a tangible way.
  • Museums are increasingly using social media to promote their exhibits, creating virtual experiences for those who cannot visit in person.

Translations

Translations of the word "exhibit" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exibir

🇮🇳 प्रदर्शित करना

🇩🇪 ausstellen

🇮🇩 memamerkan

🇺🇦 виставляти

🇵🇱 wystawiać

🇯🇵 展示する

🇫🇷 exposer

🇪🇸 exhibir

🇹🇷 sergilemek

🇰🇷 전시하다

🇸🇦 يعرض

🇨🇿 vystavovat

🇸🇰 vystavovať

🇨🇳 展览

🇸🇮 razstavljati

🇮🇸 sýna

🇰🇿 көрсету

🇬🇪 გამოფენა

🇦🇿 sərgiləmək

🇲🇽 exhibir

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,105, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.