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

An Elaborate Centerpiece Your table setting matters on Easter, and the centerpiece often sets the tone. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2026

Hang it on the front door for a welcoming touch, lay it flat as a centerpiece with pillar or clustered candles in the center, or incorporate it into a gallery wall among framed photos and prints. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2026

The centerpiece of the Jagger Suite is a 12-foot tall disco unicorn. —Henri Hollis, AJC.com, 7 Mar. 2026

Building California homes in California factories should be a centerpiece of the state’s industrial policy. —Matt Mahan, Mercury News, 7 Mar. 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