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

There’s also an important educational factor, whether learning about the conditions in factory farms or that turkeys are more than just centerpieces. —Hallie Golden, Fortune, 27 Nov. 2025

Hot chocolate bars are becoming a hit at winter parties, turning a simple treat into the centerpiece of social gatherings. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 26 Nov. 2025

The walk-through attraction features some 40 musical and animated exhibits, live entertainment, a centerpiece 60-foot-tall Community Giving Tree, holiday food and drink, and more. —Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 26 Nov. 2025

While the wholesale price of turkey is up from last year, according to the Farm Bureau, grocery stores’ meal deals are lowering the retail prices for the centerpiece item. —Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 26 Nov. 2025

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