limelight
UK: ˈlaɪmlaɪt | US: ˈlaɪmlaɪt
n. the focus of public attention
n. (historical) a bright light produced by heating lime, used in theaters
The word "limelight" originated in the early 19th century from theatrical lighting technology. Performers were illuminated by a bright light produced by heating lime (calcium oxide), placing them at the center of visibility. By the late 19th century, the term metaphorically expanded to mean "public attention," reflecting how figures in the spotlight resemble actors under literal limelight. The morphemes preserve their original meanings: "lime" (the chemical compound) and "light" (illumination).
The actor basked in the limelight after winning the award.
Politicians often crave the limelight during election campaigns.
She stepped out of the limelight to focus on her personal life.
The invention once used limelight to illuminate stages before electric lights.
His sudden fame thrust him into the limelight unexpectedly.