showpiece
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʃˈəʊpiːs/
US
- /ˈʃoʊˌpis/
Description
- Impressive display
- centerpiece
- highlight
A showpiece is not just anything nice to look at. It is the item chosen to impress. Think of a baker making a detailed cake, not only for taste, but also to catch everyone's eye. That cake is the showpiece. It might be a prized possession on display, like a vintage car in a collector's garage, or a successful project a company proudly talks about. A showpiece draws attention and shows skill or quality. Sometimes it is the literal center of a room; other times it is the main attraction in a more general sense.
The word "showpiece" refers to something deliberately displayed as an impressive example of skill, beauty, or achievement. It's more than just attractive; it's intended to be admired and often represents the best work of its creator. Think of a museum displaying its most valuable painting – that's a showpiece.
The word is often used for something put forward as a proud example of quality or success. It can refer to an object, a place, a project, or even an event. A beautifully landscaped garden might be a homeowner's showpiece, while a company's latest innovation could be presented as its showpiece at a conference.
The context often implies pride and accomplishment. When someone refers to something as their "showpiece," they are highlighting its exceptional qualities. It isn't necessarily about practicality; it's about making an impact. A chef might create a complex, artistic dessert not because it's the easiest thing to make, but because it will be the showpiece of the evening.
So, whether it's a meticulously crafted object, a stunning display, or a remarkable achievement, a showpiece is designed to impress and showcase excellence.
Examples
- 1
Museum exhibit
The museum's showpiece is a huge blue whale skeleton in the main hall.
- 2
Renovated home
They spent years turning the old house into a showpiece for visitors.
- 3
Product launch
The new electric car was supposed to be the company's showpiece at the auto fair.
- 4
Sports event
The cup final is the showpiece event of the football season.
Phrase
showpiece event
the main event that gets the most attention
See also
nounan impressive example or display item meant to be admired
Similar
- centerpiece
- highlight
- prize exhibit
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- architectural showpiece
- the showpiece of
- showpiece event
Explore
- exhibition
- display case
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- showpiecenoun