centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsen-tər-ˌpēs 

ˈse-nər-

1

: an object occupying a central position

especially : an adornment in the center of a table

2

: one that is of central importance or interest in a larger whole

the centerpiece of a political agenda

Synonyms of centerpiece

• core
• essence
• heart
• root
• kernel
• point

Examples of centerpiece in a Sentence

resolution of the original dispute became the centerpiece of the negotiations

Recent Examples on the Web

Mix in Passed-Down Treasures To honor the oldest son’s request for ducks and dogs in his room, the designer incorporated nods like the Brunschwig & Fils Roman shades and framed artwork, but the centerpiece is a pair of acorn-post twin beds handed down from Doug’s grandparents. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 9 Jan. 2026

Ohio State Sports Properties, Learfield’s local team in Columbus, will collaborate with Ohio State’s athletic department on centerpiece sponsorship assets, such as a jersey-patch partnership in anticipation of an NCAA rule change. —Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 9 Jan. 2026

Democrats are making clear that the higher health insurance costs many Americans are facing will be a political centerpiece of their efforts to retake the majority in the House and Senate in the fall elections. —Lisa Mascaro, Chicago Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026

But Williams has started finding other ways to impact the game without being a centerpiece of the offense, leaning into her defensive prowess in recent weeks. —Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 8 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for centerpiece

• altarpiece
• frontispiece
• mantelpiece
• masterpiece
• pilates
• summarise
• syntheses
• apiece
• aris
• assise
• caprice
• cerise

Kids Definition

centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsent-ər-ˌpēs 

: a piece put in the center of something and especially a decoration (as flowers) for the center of a table