demonstration

[dem-uhn-strey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or circumstance of proving or being proved conclusively, as by reasoning or a show of evidence.

   a belief incapable of demonstration.

2. something serving as proof or supporting evidence.

   They sent a check as a demonstration of their concern.

3. a description or explanation, as of a process, illustrated by examples, specimens, or the like.

   a demonstration of methods of refining ore.

4. the act of exhibiting the operation or use of a device, machine, process, product, or the like, as to a prospective buyer.

5. an exhibition, as of feeling; display; manifestation.

   His demonstration of affection was embarrassing.

6. a public exhibition of the attitude of a group of persons toward a controversial issue, or other matter, made by picketing, parading, etc.

7. a show of military force or of offensive operations made to deceive an enemy.

8. Mathematics.,  a logical presentation of the way in which given assumptions imply a certain result; proof.

demonstration

/ ˌdɛmənˈstreɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of demonstrating

2. proof or evidence leading to proof

3. an explanation, display, illustration, or experiment showing how something works

4. a manifestation of grievances, support, or protest by public rallies, parades, etc

5. a manifestation of emotion

6. a show of military force or preparedness

7. maths a logical presentation of the assumptions and equations used in solving a problem or proving a theorem

Other Word Forms

• demonstrational adjective
• demonstrationist noun
• counterdemonstration noun
• predemonstration noun
• redemonstration noun
• subdemonstration noun
• superdemonstration noun
• undemonstrational adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of demonstration¹

1325–75; Middle English demonstracioun < Latin dēmonstrātiōn- (stem of dēmonstrātiō, equivalent to dēmonstrāt ( us ) ( demonstrate ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

The government could consider pursuing more curbs on protest laws, including targeting some of the chants used at pro-Palestinian demonstrations, the prime minister has said.

From BBC

The demonstrations, which have been violent at times, are escalating.

From Salon

Universities in some parts of the UK are bracing for demonstrations on Tuesday, with students from London colleges planning a joint march in the capital.

From BBC

Hasina, who fled to India, is on trial in absentia for crimes against humanity alleged to have been committed during the demonstrations.

From BBC

He also encourages Tanzanians to push for their rights and hold demonstrations, saying the security forces are behind them.

From BBC

Related Words

• expression 
• manifestation 
• presentation 
• show 
• test 
• testimony 
• trial