center stage

noun

1

: the central part of a theatrical stage

2

: a central or highly prominent position

an issue that has taken center stage in the campaign

center stage adjective or adverb

Synonyms of center stage

• top billing
• spotlight
• attention
• limelight
• catbird seat

Examples of center stage in a Sentence

The actor stood alone at center stage.

As we wrap up work on the old project, a new one moves to center stage.

The issue is expected to take center stage in the elections.

Recent Examples on the Web

Olivia moved to a center stage to deliver her vulnerable confessions of insecurity and self-doubt. — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 26 Sep. 2026

At a time when the race to build the best frontier models is center stage, the competition to establish the next hardware platform is shaping up to be just as important. — Sebastian Herrera, Fortune, 24 Sep. 2026

Leaving center stage will be more difficult for Ronaldo, whose contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr — a deal that reportedly pays him around $6 million a week — expires next year. — Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2026

The jagged edges of the lower bowl almost spotlight the playing field like center stage. — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for center stage

• disengage
• interstage
• macrophage
• multistage
• age
• gauge
• phage
• plage
• rage
• wage
• alienage
• assuage