Showcase

ˈʃəʊkeɪs

nounBeginner📊CommonGeneral
2 meanings1 idiom/phrase3 questions

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A glass-fronted cabinet or display case used to exhibit or protect items.

ˈʃəʊkeɪs

nounneutralBeginner
General

A display cabinet or enclosure for exhibiting objects.

The museum exhibits historical relics in a reinforced showcase to safeguard them from damage and theft.

💡 Simply: Imagine a cool display case in a shop, like the one holding the fancy watches or the sparkly trophies. It's a showcase!

👶 For kids: It's like a see-through box that shows off special toys or things!

More Examples

2

We admired the designer shoes that were artfully arranged inside the showcase.

3

The art gallery had a special showcase for exhibiting sculptures by renowned artists.

How It's Used

Retail

"The jeweler placed the expensive diamond necklace in a glass showcase."

Museums

"Historical artifacts were preserved within special showcases."

2

To present or exhibit something in a prominent or favorable way, often to demonstrate its qualities.

ˈʃəʊkeɪs

verbneutralBeginner
General

To present something in an attractive or favorable way.

The university will showcase its research findings at a national conference.

💡 Simply: Like showing off your best drawing or sharing your awesome vacation photos to impress your friends. You're showcasing!

👶 For kids: To show off something really cool!

More Examples

2

The designer used the fashion show to showcase her latest clothing line.

3

The exhibition will showcase the work of talented emerging artists.

How It's Used

Marketing

"The company will showcase its new product at the upcoming trade show."

Arts

"The artist will showcase his new collection at the gallery next month."

Tip:Picture a talent show where people present their skills for all to see.

Idioms & expressions

showcase event

A major event designed to display and promote something, especially in sports, entertainment, or business.

"The Olympics is a showcase event for athletes from around the world."

From 'show' + 'case', dating back to the late 18th/early 19th century. Originally referred to a glass-fronted cabinet used for displaying items.

The word's usage has remained largely consistent since its inception, evolving from a noun to a verb with similar underlying meaning of display and presentation.

Memory tip

Think of a store where valuable items are kept in special cabinets.

Word Origin

LanguageEnglish
Original meaning

"Combination of 'show' (to display) and 'case' (a container or enclosure)"

showcase eventshowcase talentshowcase skillsshowcase a productshowcase work

Common misspellings

showcaceshowkase

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written