WordGarden.ioshowtime
Pronunciation
UK
- /ʃˈəʊtaɪm/
US
- /ˈʃoʊˌtaɪm/
Meanings
Noun
the scheduled start time for a movie, play, or similar performance
(informal)the moment to begin performing or act decisively
Beyond the definition
"Showtime!" is not just for the theater anymore. It is that charged moment when everything comes together, the moment you have been getting ready for, whether it is a big presentation at work, stepping onto a stage, or facing a tough situation directly. At first, it meant the time when a performance or movie was about to begin. Now, people also use it for any moment when skills have to be shown and the result is about to matter. A basketball player might say, "It's showtime!" before taking the winning shot, and a chef might say it when starting to plate a difficult dish for judging. The word carries energy, excitement, and a bit of pressure.
"Showtime" originally referred to the scheduled time when a theatrical performance or movie screening would begin—that specific moment when the curtain rises or the lights dim, signaling the start of the entertainment. Think of old-fashioned theaters with marquees flashing "SHOWTIME!" in bright lights.
However, over time, "showtime" has evolved far beyond its literal meaning. It now describes any crucial moment where someone is expected to perform, demonstrate their abilities, or face a significant challenge. It's that point of no return when preparation meets reality. A surgeon might say "Showtime" before entering the operating room, a salesperson before closing a big deal, or an athlete before competing in a championship game.
The phrase carries a sense of excitement, anticipation, and even pressure. It suggests a heightened state of readiness and a willingness to take center stage. It's not just doing something; it's performing it with intent. You can also use "showtime" as an exclamation to encourage others: "Alright team, it's showtime!"
So, whether you're talking about the theater or tackling life's big moments, "showtime" signifies a time for action, skill, and delivering results—it is the moment you've been waiting for to finally shine.
Examples
- 1
Film schedule
There are three showtimes for the film on Friday: 4:00, 7:00, and 9:30.
- 2
Theater timing
We arrived at the theater ten minutes before showtime.
- 3
Backstage
Backstage was quiet until showtime, and then everyone started moving fast.
- 4
Dramatic start
The host smiled at the camera and whispered, "It's showtime."
- Phraseit's showtime
it's time to begin something important or exciting
See also
Similar
- start time
- curtain time
Shades of meaning
- screening time
- airtime
- performance time
Contrast
- intermission
- curtain call
Do not confuse
- call time
Used with (collocations)
- movie showtime
- showtime is at
- before showtime
- it's showtime
Explore
- performance schedule
- box office
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- showtimenoun