limelight

American  

[lahym-lahyt] / ˈlaɪmˌlaɪt /

noun

1. Theater.

   1. (formerly) a lighting unit for spotlighting the front of the stage, producing illumination by means of a flame of mixed gases directed at a cylinder of lime and having a special lens for concentrating the light in a strong beam.

   2. the light so produced.

   3. Chiefly British. a lighting unit, especially a spotlight.

2. the center of public attention, interest, observation, or notoriety.

   He seems fond of the limelight.

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limelight British  

/ ˈlaɪmˌlaɪt /

noun

1. a position of public attention or notice (esp in the phrase in the limelight )

2. 1. a type of lamp, formerly used in stage lighting, in which light is produced by heating lime to white heat

   2. Also called: calcium light.  brilliant white light produced in this way

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Other Word Forms

• limelighter noun

Etymology

Origin of limelight

First recorded in 1820–30; lime ² + light ¹

Example Sentences

Having played at two of the past three major tournaments, he knows excelling at a club like United can propel anyone into the international limelight.

From BBC

“If you used it thoughtfully and had capacity, you could actually have a massive impact,” said Sherin, who urged those running for governor to “bring 5200 into the limelight and guarantee resources to counties.”

From Los Angeles Times

As for Coke and other staples, they could very well get pushed aside if tech steals the limelight once again.

From Barron's

As for Coke and other staples, they could very well get pushed aside if tech steals the limelight once again.

From Barron's

But “The Moment” very cleverly examines how tempting and easy it would be for an artist blinded by the glare of her newfound lime-green limelight to accept such offers.

From Salon

Related Words

• glare
• prominence
• public eye
• spotlight