Definition of limelightnext
as in spotlight
the center of public attention an actress who discovered that the limelight was not such a glowing experience when her privacy was invaded

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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 limelight Following a very public and increasingly acrimonious falling out with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of chemicals giant INEOS who bankrolled Ainslie’s two previous Cup campaigns, this is a level of limelight Ainslie could do without. Andrew Rice, New York Times, 24 July 2026 Kristen’s husband’s life was full of glamour and limelight, whereas her life was all behind the scenes. Melanie Thernstrom, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Clearly, Samsung is prioritising keeping its flagship as competitively priced as possible (and perhaps trying to steal a bit of the WWDC limelight this week) despite battling rising manufacturing costs. Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026 Special occasions celebrators, romantic weekenders, limelight-shunning VIPs, and families who want to be by the water can all be found lounging around the resort. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for limelight
Recent Examples of Synonyms for limelight
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
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

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Cite this Entry

“Limelight.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/limelight. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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