stage
UK: steɪdʒ | US: steɪdʒ
n. a raised platform for performances or displays
n. a phase or period in a process
vt. to organize and present a performance or event
The word "stage" originates from the Old French "estage" (meaning "a story of a building, position"), derived from Latin "staticum" (a standing place), from "stare" (to stand). The core idea of "standing" evolved into a platform for performances (a place where one stands to perform) and later metaphorically extended to phases in a process (steps where progress "stands").
The actors walked onto the stage to begin the play.
Adolescence is a crucial stage in human development.
The band will stage a comeback concert next month.
The project is still in its early stages.
She felt nervous standing on the stage in front of hundreds of people.