CENTER STAGE Synonyms: 11 Similar and Opposite Words

center stage

noun

Definition of center stage

as in top billing

the center of public attention a public health problem that has moved to center stage in recent years

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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 center stage The next complete lunar blackout won’t be until New Year’s Eve 2028, with Asia and Australia at center stage. — Marcia Dunn, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 In this world, argues Bapna, access to your files will become ever more important, with the idea of the infinite computer moving center stage. — David Prosser, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 The stage plot places him between Twomey and Englert, forming a rhythm trio on one side of center stage. — Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2026 Anne Hathaway’s take on casual-cool dressing puts her sneakers at the center stage of her outfit. — Amber Rambharose, InStyle, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for center stage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for center stage

Noun

Despite his top billing and his undeniable curmudgeon charisma, even Dern ends up underserved by a role that is eventually reduced to so much benign backdrop for a much blander hero’s journey.

— Jessica Kiang, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
Nonwhite voters claim top billing As the first-in-the-South primary, South Carolina was more decisive than Iowa and New Hampshire for nominees Barack Obama in 2008, Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020.

— Mike Catalini, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of top billing

Noun

Lately, the movie has been overshadowed by its jukebox musical counterpart, but the original film absolutely deserves its moment in the nightclub spotlight.

— Kara Nesvig, Parents, 29 Aug. 2026
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Atlanta’s time in the international spotlight, and Allen’s works were recently on display at the Hammonds House Museum.

— AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of spotlight

Noun

The Moon enters Aries and your 10th House of Career, Reputation, and Responsibility, putting attention on your public role, work, leadership, or visible commitments.

— Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Aug. 2026
Finally, markets this week paid close attention to news of the passing of former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of attention

Browse Nearby Words

centers (on)

center stage

center stages

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“Center stage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/center%20stage. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of center stage

noun

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