enter the picture/scene

phrase

1
: to become involved in something
The company went through many drastic changes after its new owner entered the scene.
2
: to become something that must be considered or dealt with
Once politics enters the picture, chances for a quick settlement are greatly reduced.

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Enter the picture/scene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enter%20the%20picture%2Fscene. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster