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

At 410 square feet, the room is well-sized, but has the illusion of being even bigger, thanks to the high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, neutral color scheme, and gorgeous charcoal-gray wooden floors that let the view take center stage. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

While diet and exercise have always been center stage in any discussion about better health, sleep has had a fascinating glow-up in recent years. —Sharon Brandwein, USA Today, 2 June 2026

The case sparked outrage both in the local community and nationwide, with conversations surrounding race and self-defense rights taking center stage. —Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026

Blatter ran the show but never quite took center stage. —Sam Knight, New Yorker, 1 June 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