limelight

[lahym-lahyt]

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.

limelight

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• limelighter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of limelight¹

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

Example Sentences

Those who work with Levy have described him as "shy, quiet and hard working", not the cold character of public perception, although limelight and public speaking has never sat easy with him.

From BBC

The Chinese leader has stolen the limelight, and he's using it to show his power and influence over an eastern-led alliance – a defiant group determined to push back against a US-led world order.

From BBC

"He is a colourful character who certainly likes the limelight. I guess some Wednesday fans would probably welcome anybody given the current circumstances."

From BBC

For those suffering in the unprecedented limelight, there are mental health support and protection from social media abuse.

From BBC

Today the Russian president got his moment in the geo-political limelight, sharing the stage with the leader of the world's most powerful country.

From BBC

Related Words

• glare 
• prominence 
• public eye 
• spotlight