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

• 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

Then Marquez found himself at center stage surrounded by the Kansas City Symphony. —Dan Kelly, Kansas City Star, 5 Sep. 2025

The Extra Value Meals feel like a natural extension, returning value to center stage. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2025

By placing them center stage, Omokanye honors their unseen role in preserving cultural craftsmanship while disarming viewers with beauty. —Byron Armstrong, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025

The pitch competition brought startup dreams to center stage, blending Shark Tank-style excitement with the cultural heartbeat of Invest Fest. —Okla Jones, Essence, 26 Aug. 2025

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