sideshow
UK: ˈsaɪd.ʃəʊ | US: ˈsaɪd.ʃoʊ
n. a minor or secondary show or event, often accompanying a larger one
n. a diversion or distraction from the main issue or event
The word "sideshow" emerged in the mid-19th century, originally referring to smaller performances or exhibits set up alongside a main attraction, such as a circus or fair. The morpheme "side" denotes something peripheral or less significant, while "show" retains its core meaning of a public display. Over time, it gained metaphorical use to describe anything that diverts attention from a primary focus.
The carnival featured a thrilling sideshow with fire-eaters and acrobats.
Political scandals often become a sideshow to more pressing national issues.
The museum’s dinosaur exhibit included a sideshow about fossil preservation.
Don’t let the debate turn into a sideshow about trivial details.
The festival’s sideshow tents were just as popular as the main stage.