showdown
|show-down|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈʃoʊˌdaʊn/
🇬🇧
/ˈʃəʊˌdaʊn/
decisive confrontation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'showdown' originates from the phrase 'show down,' where 'show' meant 'to display' and 'down' indicated 'completely or thoroughly.'
Historical Evolution
'show down' transformed into the modern English word 'showdown' in the early 20th century, primarily used in poker to describe the revealing of cards.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to reveal cards in poker,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a decisive confrontation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a final test or confrontation intended to settle a dispute or competition.
The two teams are preparing for a showdown in the finals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40