1. A device that can be attached to a computer in order to present transient images—textual or pictorial—on its screen (see text mode, graphics mode). For many years the most widely used display device was the cathode-ray tube with colour specified by RGB signals. Other display technologies use flat-panel displays, which in recent years have largely replaced cathode-ray tubes as prices have fallen. These include LCDs (liquid-crystal displays), plasma panels, and electroluminescent displays.

2. A method of presenting graphical or pictorial images. See also raster-scan display, vector display.

3. To make information visible in a temporary form.