spotlight

/ˌspɑtˈlaɪt/

/ˈspɒtlaɪt/

Other forms: spotlights; spotlighted; spotlighting; spotlit

A spotlight is a bright beam of light that shines on people on stage. Actors and rock stars love spending time in the spotlight when they’re performing, but if they’re famous they’re in the spotlight all the time.

If you star in the school play, you'll be in a literal spotlight, illuminated on the stage while you sing your big solo number. If some day you're elected President of the United States, you'll be in a figurative spotlight, at the center of intense attention by the public. You can also call this limelight. Lighting experts often call spotlights followspots.

Definitions of spotlight

1. noun

   a lamp that produces a strong beam of light to illuminate a restricted area; used to focus attention of a stage performer
   synonyms: spot

   type of:

   lamp

   an artificial source of visible illumination
2. noun

   a focus of public attention
   synonyms: glare, limelight, public eye

   type of:

   prominence

   the state of being prominent: widely known or eminent
3. verb

   illuminate with a spotlight, as in the theater
   type of:

   illume, illuminate, illumine, light, light up

   make lighter or brighter
4. verb

   move into the foreground to make more visible or prominent
   synonyms: foreground, highlight, play up

   type of:

   bring out, set off

   direct attention to, as if by means of contrast