plural spotlights
1
a
: a device that directs a narrow, bright beam of light on a small area
They aimed the spotlight at the center of the stage.
b
: the area of light created by a spotlight
A spotlight moved across the stage.
The actor stood in the spotlight.
performing under the spotlights
2
: public attention or notice
a baseball star who hates the spotlight
They're always in the spotlight.
School violence is once again under the media spotlight. [=getting a lot of attention from the media]
The news article turned/put the spotlight on the city's financial problems.
spotlights; spotlighted or spotlit; spotlighting
1
: to shine a spotlight on (someone or something)
She was spotlighted as she sang her solo.
a spotlit area
2
: to give special attention to (something)
The news spotlighted the city's financial problems.
Cite this Entry
“Spotlight.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/spotlight. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
