ENGLISH
REFERENCE

exhibition

n.
US //ˌɛksəˈbɪʃən// UK //ɛksɪbˈɪʃən// ex·hi·bi·tion
  1. 1 public show of objects (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a public event where people can look at things like art, history, or new products.

    a large-scale public display of objects, artworks, or products, typically held in a gallery or museum.

    Example

    We went to see the new photography exhibition at the city museum.

    Example

    The retrospective exhibition featured over two hundred sketches that had never been displayed to the public before.
  2. 2 demonstration of skill (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a display of a particular quality, feeling, or skill.

    a clear demonstration or manifestation of a specific skill, quality, or emotion.

    Example

    The young pianist gave a brilliant exhibition of her musical talent.

    Example

    The captain's calm response during the crisis was a remarkable exhibition of leadership under extreme pressure.
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  1. 3 non-competitive game (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    a sports game played for practice or entertainment, not for a league score.

    a sporting event or match that does not affect the official standings of a league or tournament.

    Example

    The team played an exhibition game against a local club before the season started.

    Example

    Although it was merely an exhibition match, the stadium was nearly full as fans were eager to see the new signings in action.
  2. 4 academic scholarship (n.)
    C1 Advanced British English Formal

    a prize or money given to a student for doing very well in their studies.

    a financial award or scholarship granted to a student by a school or university based on academic merit.

    Example

    He was awarded an exhibition to study history at the university.

    Example

    Winning the senior exhibition allowed her to pursue her research without the burden of additional tuition fees.
  3. 5 negative public display (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    a public display of behavior that is embarrassing or bad.

    a public display of behavior or emotion, often characterized as inappropriate or embarrassing.

    Example

    He made an exhibition of himself by shouting at the waiter in the crowded restaurant.

    Example

    The politician made a sorry exhibition of himself by losing his temper during the televised debate.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'make an exhibition of oneself'.
Origin

From Old French exhibicion. Equivalent to exhibit + -ion.

Idioms1 entry

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