centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsen-tər-ˌpēs How to pronounce centerpiece (audio)
ˈse-nər-
Synonyms of centerpiecenext
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

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Examples of centerpiece in a Sentence

resolution of the original dispute became the centerpiece of the negotiations
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The bank statement loan, Miami’s workhorse The centerpiece of this world is the bank statement loan. — Karen Koehler, Miami Herald, 31 Aug. 2026 The 52-mile Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway is the centerpiece of a fall road trip. — Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Scatter edible pears, a few brown leaves, and mini gourds down your dining table to create a rustic centerpiece. — Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Aug. 2026 The Imprimé Lion necklace, the centerpiece of the maison’s new Signes & Symboles collection, does just that. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for centerpiece

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of centerpiece was in 1803

Rhymes for centerpiece

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Browse Nearby Words

center of volume
centerpiece
centerplate
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Cite this Entry

“Centerpiece.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centerpiece. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

centerpiece

noun
cen·​ter·​piece ˈsent-ər-ˌpēs How to pronounce centerpiece (audio)
: a piece put in the center of something and especially a decoration (as flowers) for the center of a table
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