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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ace holds center stage, knees bent, slung low to the ground, brandishing his Gibson while Gene and Paul preen on either side of him. Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025 The two-hour event featured Mamdani and Cuomo separated in the middle by Sliwa at center stage. Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 17 Oct. 2025 As part of that, students constructed part of the exhibition space, including a center stage designed in the shape of a vinyl record. Carol Cain, Freep.com, 11 Oct. 2025 Released in September 2024 through a joint venture between EZMNY Records and Motown, the album marked Thomas’ return to center stage after years behind the scenes. Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for center stage

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of center stage was in 1875

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Center stage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/center%20stage. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!