Show business, sometimes shortened to show biz, is a vernacular term for all aspects of entertainment. The word applies to all aspects of the entertainment industry from the business side (including managers, agents, producers and distributors) to the creative element (including artists, performers, writers, musicians and technicians).. The term was in common usage throughout the 20th century. By the latter part of the century it had acquired a slightly arcane quality associated with the era of variety, but the term is still in active use.