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

The centerpiece ingredient was, inexplicably, sautéed carrot. — Ruby Tandoh, New Yorker, 7 Sep. 2026

With All-Pro tight end Bowers serving as the centerpiece alongside Michael Mayer and wideout Tre Tucker, the offense possesses far more execution upside than last fall—all while Mendoza develops behind the scenes. — David Troy Outkick, FOXNews.com, 6 Sep. 2026

The centerpiece of The Elusive Body is the Undiagnosed Disease Program (UDP) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). — Jerome Groopman, The New York Review of Books, 5 Sep. 2026

Play spaces — including the centerpiece play structure with two domed towers — are accessible to wheelchair users via ramp. — Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for centerpiece

• altarpiece
• frontispiece
• mantelpiece
• masterpiece
• pilates
• specialise
• stabilise
• syntheses
• apiece
• aris
• assise
• caprice

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