# exhibition

/ˌɛksəˈbɪʃən/ (US) · /ɛksɪbˈɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exhibition
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. public show of objects

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- We went to see the new photography exhibition at the city museum.
- The retrospective exhibition featured over two hundred sketches that had never been displayed to the public before.

### 2. demonstration of skill

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The young pianist gave a brilliant exhibition of her musical talent.
- The captain's calm response during the crisis was a remarkable exhibition of leadership under extreme pressure.

### 3. non-competitive game

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The team played an exhibition game against a local club before the season started.
- Although it was merely an exhibition match, the stadium was nearly full as fans were eager to see the new signings in action.

### 4. academic scholarship

noun · CEFR C1 · British English · Formal

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

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

- He was awarded an exhibition to study history at the university.
- Winning the senior exhibition allowed her to pursue her research without the burden of additional tuition fees.

### 5. negative public display

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a public display of behavior that is embarrassing or bad.

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

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

## Examples

- We went to see the new photography exhibition yesterday.
- The local museum is hosting an exhibition of ancient pottery that will run until the end of the month.
- The international trade exhibition provides a vital platform for emerging tech companies to showcase their latest innovations to potential investors and global distributors.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.