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

In many races, healthcare is at the center, while in others, issues like AI and data centers or taking on corruption in politics are center stage. — Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026

In this world, argues Bapna, access to your files will become ever more important, with the idea of the infinite computer moving center stage. — David Prosser, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

The stage plot places him between Twomey and Englert, forming a rhythm trio on one side of center stage. — Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2026

Anne Hathaway’s take on casual-cool dressing puts her sneakers at the center stage of her outfit. — Amber Rambharose, InStyle, 29 July 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