showmanship

Everyday

Skill at entertaining a crowd and getting attention, by doing things in a bold, exciting or dramatic way. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, sport and the arts, showmanship describes performers who don't just do something well but make it fun to watch, like a footballer doing tricks or a magician with a big cape. In English lessons it can be praise (great entertainment) or criticism (showing off more than being good). Phrases: «a bit of showmanship», «pure showmanship».

Examples

• The magician's showmanship had the whole hall gasping. tree →
• His goal celebration was pure showmanship. tree →
• The circus ringmaster was famous for his showmanship. tree →
• Good showmanship can make even a science demo exciting. tree →
• She plays well, but she needs less showmanship and more teamwork. tree →
• P. T. Barnum was known for his showmanship and his tall tales. tree →

Note

Uncountable. From «showman» + «-ship». Not about «ships». Used of anyone, man or woman.