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.
But after a few moments, Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez – standing on the other side of Trump – motioned for James to go ahead with Trump standing center stage. Ben Morse, CNN Money, 14 July 2025 While it’s been a decade of tech giants putting AI center stage in their advertising campaigns, in just the last few years, the market has achieved new velocity, with new kingmakers rising to the forefront and new use cases deployed seemingly every month. Travis Clinger, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 Former President Joe Biden's likeness was moved to the side following Trump's return to the center stage spot – the first time a figure has been sidelined and then returned since the Hall of Presidents first opened over 50 years ago. Dan Gooding, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 July 2025 Lacrosse was only center stage in Kansas City for 48 hours, but the mark was left on fans and players alike. Kansas City Star, 6 July 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

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Cite this Entry

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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