English Reference
noun · verb

demo

n. · v.
US /ˈdɛmoʊ/ UK /dˈɛməʊ/ de·mo

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Informal Computing

    n.a limited version of a computer program or game that you can try before you buy it.

    n.a software edition with restricted functionality or content, released to allow users to evaluate the product before purchase.

    Simple

    I played the game demo for an hour and then decided to buy the full version.

    In context

    The developers released a playable demo on the digital storefront to gauge player interest before the official launch date.

    full version
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Informal Music

    n.a simple recording of a song made to show what it sounds like, usually before a professional version is made.

    n.a preliminary recording of a musical work intended to showcase the composition to labels, producers, or band members.

    Simple

    The band sent their demo to several record labels hoping to get a contract.

    In context

    While the production on the demo was rough, the raw energy of the performance convinced the producer to sign the group immediately.

    studio version
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate InformalBritish English

    n.a public meeting or march where people protest against something.

    n.a public manifestation of dissent or support, typically involving a march or gathering in a public space.

    Simple

    Thousands of students joined the demo in the city centre to protest the new law.

    In context

    The peaceful demo turned into a tense standoff when the marchers reached the barricades surrounding the parliament building.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced InformalTechnical

    n.a specific group of people in a population, such as a certain age or income level.

    n.a specific segment of a population identified by shared characteristics, used primarily in marketing or sociology.

    Simple

    The new smartphone is designed to appeal to the younger demo.

    In context

    Advertisers are struggling to reach the rural demo, as traditional television campaigns no longer yield the same engagement rates.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate Informal

    v.to show someone how a product or a piece of software works.

    v.to perform a demonstration of a product's features or a system's capabilities for a potential client or audience.

    Simple

    The sales assistant offered to demo the new coffee machine for us.

    In context

    The engineering team will demo the updated interface during the board meeting to justify the recent budget increase.

  6. 06 C1 Advanced InformalAmerican English

    v.to tear down or destroy a building or part of a house.

    v.to perform demolition work on a structure or interior fixture.

    Simple

    We need to demo the old kitchen cabinets before the new ones arrive.

    In context

    The contractor estimated it would take three days to demo the interior walls and clear the debris from the site.

    demolishtear downwreck
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated