demonstration
dem-uhn-STRAY-shuhn
/ˌdemənˈstreɪʃn/
A visual explanation or physical show of how something works, such as onboard emergency equipment.
Focuses on showing physically rather than merely telling verbally.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'de-' (fully) and 'monstrare' (to show/point out, connected to 'monster' as a warning sign). Over centuries, it evolved from showing logical proof to physically demonstrating equipment operation in workplaces and aircraft cabins.
Word relationships
- exhibition: An 'exhibition' displays items publicly, whereas a 'demonstration' shows how something functions.
- presentation: A 'presentation' often uses spoken or slide material, while a 'demonstration' highlights active physical execution.
Commonly confused with
- Protest: 'Demonstration' can mean a political march, but in cabin contexts, it exclusively means demonstrating equipment.
Word family
- demonstrate (verb): To show or explain how something works visually.
- demonstrative (adjective): Openly expressing emotions or indicating clearly.
Collocations
- safety demonstration
- practical demonstration
- live demonstration
- give a demonstration
Example sentences
- "Passengers are asked to pause their video screens during the manual safety demonstration." Passenger Safety
- "Faraday gave a brilliant public demonstration of electromagnetic induction at the Royal Institution." Scientific History
Memory hook
DEMONSTRATION: DEMON-STRATE shows you step-by-step how to act. DEMONSTRATION = Showing clearly in action.
When not to use
Do not use if referring purely to written instructions without physical demonstration.
Fun facts
- Before modern video screens, every flight attendant had to perform safety demonstrations completely by hand using demo kits.
Related words
Explore more words
hands-on, showroom, verify, experiential, simulation, presentation
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