scene

Definition of scenenext
1
as in setting
the place and time in which the action for a portion of a dramatic work (as a movie) is set the first scene was the kitchen of a fancy restaurant during dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
3
as in situation
position with regard to conditions and circumstances one of the leading figures in the current political scene

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
as in scenery
the array of painted backgrounds and furnishings used to establish the setting in a stage production helped build and paint scenes for the school play

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of scene The horizontal orientation of this house seems to celebrate the views all around, almost as if to say the real star is the scene of the mountains just beyond. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2026 Johansson found solace from typecasting in the New York theater scene. Jack Dunn, Variety, 12 Apr. 2026 The episode builds to a scene when Duncan, having sniffed out JoAnne’s scheme, blackmails her into an even larger scheme to pump rival executives for business scoops. Scott Tobias, Vulture, 12 Apr. 2026 Total solar eclipse gracing the lunar scene. Marcia Dunn, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for scene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scene
Noun
  • Even the film’s setting reflects that sense of personal and communal connection.
    Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2026
  • The inclusion of Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, further enhances productivity by assisting with tasks such as summarizing content, generating ideas, and navigating system settings.
    StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 10 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • According to the documents, Chee paid his other employees in cash — including those who later died in the explosion.
    Joe Rubin, Sacbee.com, 10 Apr. 2026
  • The warmth that is the CinemaScope explosion of every emotion all at once.
    Courtney Crowder, USA Today, 10 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • While the situation may feel serious, Lipsher stressed that preparation is about staying ahead of the problem, not panicking.
    Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 13 Apr. 2026
  • In recent weeks, several ships have attempted to transit the strait only to abort their efforts, reflecting a constantly changing security situation and persistently high risks.
    Weilun Soon, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Easily recognized for its dramatic scenery and rugged landscapes, Scotland is also among the rare few destinations that have made a single drink worth an entire trip.
    Alessandra Amodio, Travel + Leisure, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Its new film still will include animals and scenery but lean into storytelling and narration, park officials confirmed Thursday.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Hengemuhle said that, as human beings, there is a responsibility to do everything possible to combat hate, which requires understanding and educating one another, as well as drawing on different policing and professional backgrounds.
    Amelie Botbol, FOXNews.com, 14 Apr. 2026
  • How does your background in theater, touring with Earth, Wind & Fire and doing background vocals for Erykah Badu help shape you as a live performer?
    Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Among agonized grunts and huffs, Probst narrated the fumbles.
    Sarah Grant, New Yorker, 2 Feb. 2026
  • David walks out of the kitchen and Moira huffs and takes his spot over the pot.
    Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
    Joyann Jeffrey, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Her supporters, including Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison, a family friend, decried her alleged detainment, and her story sparked outcry and protests.
    Victor Jacobo, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The molten pattern takes its cue from the shell of the hawksbill sea turtle—a design first seen in the decor of ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt.
    Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Party Decor Your hosting closet is a great spot for keeping seasonal decor, too.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Scene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scene. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on scene

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