1
: a classroom exercise in which children display an item and talk about it
2
: a public display or demonstration

Examples of show-and-tell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The show-and-tell at the end of each workshop is Joy’s favorite part. Angela Haupt, Time, 19 May 2026 The evening begins with a kind of millennial moral show-and-tell. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 3 Apr. 2026 And like the plushie toys, designer goods — bags, belts, shoes and sunglasses — make for an impressive show-and-tell. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 7 May 2026 The session is followed by the organization’s regular meeting with a speaker, a plant show-and-tell, and orchid sales. Ryan Conner, Dallas Morning News, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for show-and-tell

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of show-and-tell was in 1941

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Cite this Entry

“Show-and-tell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/show-and-tell. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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