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General

a show

What does a show mean?

When something looks awful or is a shambles, it is 'a show' or 'an absolute show'.

"Her curly blow looks an absolute show."

Origin

Liverpool idiom, from making a spectacle or 'show' of oneself.

Frequently asked questions

What does 'a show' mean in Scouse?
It means a mess or a shambles, describing something that looks awful or embarrassing, often as 'an absolute show'.
Where does the idiom come from?
It's a Liverpool idiom rooted in the idea of making a spectacle or 'show' of oneself.
How do you use 'a show'?
To criticise something's appearance, as in 'Her hair looks an absolute show.'
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.