stage effect

American  

noun

1. a highly spectacular or artificial device or means, especially for attracting attention.

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stage effect British  

noun

1. a special effect created on the stage by lighting, sound, etc

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Etymology

Origin of stage effect

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

A sweet stage effect embroiders the evening’s final moments, as Celie’s happiness reaches full flower.

From Washington Post • Aug. 25, 2022

The one-ton, 6,000-bead chandelier is not only Broadway’s most famous stage effect, but also its oldest.

From New York Times • Sep. 16, 2021

A stage effect didn’t quite work, and Ms. Levy noticed.

From New York Times • Aug. 9, 2017

The street lamps were lit against a sky still light, a stage effect that almost makes me cry.

From The Guardian • Jul. 19, 2012

“Manfred” is merely dramatic for the sake of stage effect, and only excellent in impressing us with the artistic skill of the author. 

From Legends of Florence Collected from the People, First Series by Leland, Charles Godfrey