showdown

noun

show·​down ˈshō-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce showdown (audio)
Synonyms of showdownnext
1
: the placing of poker hands faceup on the table to determine the winner of a pot
2
: a decisive confrontation or contest

Examples of showdown 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 primaries will set up November showdowns, when Republicans in Congress hope to cling onto their slim majority. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026 Season 4 saw an epic showdown between Kanan and his mother, Raq (Patina Miller), resulting in a couple of surprise deaths and the return of a fan-favorite character. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 13 Feb. 2026 Edgecombe scored nearly half of his team's 41 points — including the last 10 in a row — while winning the second semifinal to set up a showdown between the teams led by NBA greats Vince Carter and Carmelo Anthony. ABC News, 13 Feb. 2026 That means Saturday’s showdown with the Mountaineers is crucial. Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for showdown

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of showdown was in 1870

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Cite this Entry

“Showdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showdown. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

showdown

noun
show·​down -ˌdau̇n How to pronounce showdown (audio)
: the test of strength that finally settles a dispute

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