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demonstration

n.
US //ˌdɛmənˈstɹeɪʃən// UK //dˌɛmənstɹˈeɪʃən// demon·stra·tion
  1. 1 showing how something works (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    an act of showing someone how to use a product or how a process works.

    the act of illustrating or explaining a process or product through practical application.

    Example

    The chef gave a quick demonstration of how to make the perfect pasta dough.

    Example

    The technical team provided a comprehensive demonstration of the new software, highlighting the security features that distinguish it from previous versions.
  2. 2 a public protest (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a public meeting or march where many people show they disagree with something.

    a public display of group opinion, typically taking the form of a protest march or rally.

    Example

    Thousands of people joined the demonstration to ask for better pay for teachers.

    Example

    The peaceful demonstration filled the city square, with organisers calling for immediate legislative reform regarding environmental protections.
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  1. 3 showing a feeling (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a way of showing a feeling or quality through your actions.

    an outward expression or manifestation of a specific feeling, quality, or ability.

    Example

    The team's victory was a great demonstration of their hard work and skill.

    Example

    His calm response during the crisis was a remarkable demonstration of leadership under extreme pressure.
  2. 4 a logical proof (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Formal Math

    a logical proof that shows why something must be true.

    the process of establishing a truth by a systematic logical argument or mathematical proof.

    Example

    The professor provided a clear demonstration of the theorem on the blackboard.

    Example

    The paper offers a rigorous demonstration of the hypothesis, relying on data collected over a ten-year longitudinal study.
    • disproof
    • refutation
  3. 5 military show of force (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    a show of military power intended to warn or impress others.

    a show of military force or readiness intended to intimidate an enemy or deter aggression.

    Example

    The navy's demonstration in the bay was meant to discourage the rebels.

    Example

    The deployment of the carrier strike group was a calculated demonstration of naval superiority intended to stabilise the region.
    • show of force
Origin

From Middle English demonstracioun, from Old French demonstration, from Latin dēmōnstrātiōnem, from dēmōnstrāre (“show or explain”), from dē- (“of or concerning”) + mōnstrāre (“show”). Morphologically demonstrate + -ion.

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