"glass case for exhibiting valuable things," 1835, from show (v.) + case (n.2). In the extended sense, it is attested from 1937. The verb is first recorded 1945. Related: Showcased; showcasing.
it was a showcase for democracy in Africa
shovelful
show
show up
show-and-tell
showboat
showcase
showdown
shower
showgirl
showman
showmanship
