English Reference
noun

exhibition

n.
US /ˌɛksəˈbɪʃən/ UK /ɛksɪbˈɪʃən/ ex·hi·bi·tion UK spelling exhibition's, exhibition's

  1. 01 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    The retrospective exhibition featured over two hundred sketches that had never been displayed to the public before.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The captain's calm response during the crisis was a remarkable exhibition of leadership under extreme pressure.

  3. 03 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    Although it was merely an exhibition match, the stadium was nearly full as fans were eager to see the new signings in action.

    friendlypractice match
    competitive matchtournament
  4. 04 C1 Advanced British EnglishFormal

    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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    Winning the senior exhibition allowed her to pursue her research without the burden of additional tuition fees.

  5. 05 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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'.


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

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated