First Known Use: 1548
Dictionary
demonstrate
verb dem·on·strate \ˈde-mən-ˌstrāt\
: to prove (something) by showing examples of it : to show evidence of (something)
: to prove (something) by being an example of it : to be evidence of (something)
: to show (a quality, feeling, etc.) clearly to other people
dem·on·strat·eddem·on·strat·ing
Full Definition of DEMONSTRATE
transitive verb
1
: to show clearly <demonstrate a willingness to cooperate>
2
a : to prove or make clear by reasoning or evidence b : to illustrate and explain especially with many examples <demonstrate a procedure>
3
: to show or prove the value or efficiency of to a prospective buyer <demonstrate a new product>
intransitive verb
: to make a demonstration <crowds demonstrating for the right to vote>
See demonstrate defined for English-language learners
See demonstrate defined for kids
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Origin of DEMONSTRATE
Latin demonstratus, past participle of demonstrare, from de- + monstrare to show — more at muster
Related to DEMONSTRATE
- Synonyms
- establish, prove, show, substantiate
- Antonyms
- disprove
Synonym Discussion of DEMONSTRATE
show, exhibit, display, expose, parade, flaunt mean to present so as to invite notice or attention. show implies no more than enabling another to see or examine <showed her snapshots to the whole group>. exhibit stresses putting forward prominently or openly <exhibit paintings at a gallery>. display emphasizes putting in a position where others may see to advantage <display sale items>. expose suggests bringing forth from concealment and displaying <sought to expose the hypocrisy of the town fathers>. parade implies an ostentatious or arrogant displaying <parading their piety for all to see>. flaunt suggests a shameless, boastful, often offensive parading <nouveaux riches flaunting their wealth>.
show, manifest, evidence, evince, demonstrate mean to reveal outwardly or make apparent. show is the general term but sometimes implies that what is revealed must be gained by inference from acts, looks, or words <careful not to show his true feelings>. manifest implies a plainer, more immediate revelation <manifested musical ability at an early age>. evidence suggests serving as proof of the actuality or existence of something <a commitment evidenced by years of loyal service>. evince implies a showing by outward marks or signs <evinced not the slightest fear>. demonstrate implies showing by action or by display of feeling <demonstrated their approval by loud applause>.
show, manifest, evidence, evince, demonstrate mean to reveal outwardly or make apparent. show is the general term but sometimes implies that what is revealed must be gained by inference from acts, looks, or words <careful not to show his true feelings>. manifest implies a plainer, more immediate revelation <manifested musical ability at an early age>. evidence suggests serving as proof of the actuality or existence of something <a commitment evidenced by years of loyal service>. evince implies a showing by outward marks or signs <evinced not the slightest fear>. demonstrate implies showing by action or by display of feeling <demonstrated their approval by loud applause>.
Rhymes with DEMONSTRATE
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DEMONSTRATES Defined for Kids
demonstrate
verb dem·on·strate \ˈde-mən-ˌstrāt\
dem·on·strat·eddem·on·strat·ing
Definition of DEMONSTRATE for Kids
1
: to show clearly <He demonstrates a willingness to change.>
2
: to prove or make clear by reasoning <Galileo demonstrated that the earth revolves around the sun.>
3
: to explain (as in teaching) by use of examples or experiments <My science project demonstrates blood circulation.>
4
: to show to people the good qualities of an article or a product <demonstrate a new car>
5
: to make a public display (as of feelings or military force) <Marchers demonstrated for human rights.>
Medical Dictionary
demonstrate
verb dem·on·strate \ˈdem-ən-ˌstrāt\
dem·on·strat·eddem·on·strat·ing
Medical Definition of DEMONSTRATE
transitive verb
1
: to show clearly <demonstrated the artery arteriographically>
2
: to prove or make clear by reasoning or evidence
intransitive verb
: to make a demonstration
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