1. the presentation of stimuli to any of the senses.

2. more or less stereotyped actions (i.e., actions repeated with little variation) that bring about a response in another individual: an integral part especially of animal communication. Display behavior may be a physical or vocal signal, usually involving stimulation of the visual or auditory senses. It may include body language that would convey a message of courtship to a member of the opposite sex (e.g., a show of plumage or color) or a suggestion that would be interpreted by an opponent as threatening (e.g., bared teeth or hissing noises). Because of their stereotyped nature, displays are thought to have evolved from physiological or behavioral responses to previously direct interactions that have now become symbolic. For example, a human being may be flushed when aggressive or pale when fearful due to vasodilation or vasoconstriction associated with attack or avoidance. These vascular changes have now become predictive of the behavior likely to follow and serve as communication signals. See also display rule.