in the limelight

Idioms and Phrases

Also, in the spotlight . At the center of public attention or notoriety. For example, John loves being in the limelight , or The reporters made sure the attractive new actress would be in the spotlight . Both terms come from the theater and allude to focusing light on an important person, the first from a lighting device used from about 1840 on, the second from the early 1900s. Also see in the public eye ; steal the show .

Related Words

• acclaimed
• eminent
• illustrious
• important
• infamous
• known
• leading
• notable
• noted
• notorious
• outstanding
• popular
• prominent
• recognized
• renowned
• reputable