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

They were carved with patriotic love by a Texas sculptor who studied in Paris under a French modern master and envisioned as the polished centerpieces of a $10 million park, but now sit in a Virginia field as an offbeat, reservations-only, roadside tourist draw. —Danielle Paquette The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 17 Feb. 2026

The centerpiece of the weekend has been devalued over time. —Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 16 Feb. 2026

Where to Stay Sun Valley Lodge As the historic centerpiece of the resort, this grand alpine hotel has anchored Sun Valley since the 1930s. —Denny Lee, Travel + Leisure, 16 Feb. 2026

But for car enthusiasts, the truck became a centerpiece moment during Bad Bunny's nearly 15 minute halftime performance. —Jamie L. Lareau, USA Today, 15 Feb. 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