show business

noun

Synonyms of show businessnext
: the arts, occupations, and businesses (such as theater, movies, and television) that comprise the entertainment industry

Examples of show business in a Sentence

She has been in show business for over 30 years. actors trying to break into show business
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.
Dolly Parton's success in show business gave wings to her natural generosity. — Scott Simon, NPR, 29 Aug. 2026 The great Gladys Knight will take a step back from the relentless touring that’s marked her 75 years in show business. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026 While his daughter Miley would one day become one of the Disney Channel’s biggest breakout stars—and a three-time Grammy winner—Billy Ray initially warned her away from show business. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 28 Aug. 2026 In the book, the star detailed her prolific and sometimes difficult career in show business; growing up under the harsh light of Hollywood; and the highs and lows of filming hit TV shows like Heroes and Nashville, and more. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for show business

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of show business was in 1840

Rhymes for show business

See All Rhymes for show business

Browse Nearby Words

showbread
show business
show card
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Cite this Entry

“Show business.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/show%20business. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

show business

noun
: the arts, occupations, and companies that make up the entertainment industry

More from Merriam-Webster on show business

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for show business

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