centerpiece

[sen-ter-pees]

noun

1. an ornamental object used in a central position, especially on the center of a dining-room table.

2. the central or outstanding point or feature.

   The centerpiece of the evening was a play put on by the employees.

Word History and Origins

Origin of centerpiece¹

First recorded in 1830–40; center + piece

Example Sentences

The centerpiece, the Fountain of Youth, will host nightly fireworks and laser shows spotlighting American pop culture legends.

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For added whimsy, the tree is the centerpiece of an “Alice in Wonderland”-style checkerboard of tile and grass.

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It is that Mahler Second performance that Bradley Cooper chose as the musical centerpiece of his Bernstein 2023 biopic, “Maestro.”

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The re-created annex, the show’s centerpiece, should also be its emotional heart.

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They’re making field days the centerpiece of birthday celebrations and bachelorette parties.

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Related Words

• climax 
• focal point