demo

UK: ˈdɛməʊ | US: ˈdɛmoʊ

Definition

  1. n. 1. A demonstration or example of a product, idea, or skill (e.g., software demo).

  2. n. 2. Short for "demolition" in informal contexts (e.g., "demo derby").

  3. vt. 3. To demonstrate or showcase something (e.g., "She demoed the new app").

Structure
demo <people, from Greek *dēmos*>
Etymology

The word "demo" originates from the Greek dēmos (δῆμος), meaning "people" or "population." It entered English as a clipping of "demonstration" (a public display by or for people) and later expanded to mean a sample or trial version (e.g., "demo tape"). The informal use for "demolition" arose from abbreviation culture in 20th-century slang. The root consistently ties to collective action—whether protesting (demonstration) or testing (product demo).

Examples

  1. The band released a demo to attract record labels.

  2. Protesters organized a peaceful demo downtown.

  3. He spent the weekend demoing the new video game.

  4. The developer shared a demo version of the app.

  5. Watch the tutorial demo before attempting the task.