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

Kaiser has made that proffered pay increase the centerpiece of its messaging campaign to avoid another strike. —Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026

Many residents cherish the old brick-and-wood mills as a visual centerpiece of Rockville as well as a reminder of that area’s long-ago moniker of Loom City. —Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 26 Jan. 2026

The centerpiece of the NTT IndyCar Series is the famed Indianapolis 500, which will be held for the 110th time on May 24 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. —Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026

The sumptuous marble bar of the latter is the centerpiece of an airy cocktail spot that is framed by tropical murals by artist Ann Marie Auricchio. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 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