limelight
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈlaɪmˌlaɪt/
KK: /ˈlaɪmˌlaɪt/
noun
Definition
A state of being the center of public attention or interest.
Example
After her amazing performance, she found herself in the limelight.
Conversation
Did you see how she stepped into the limelight at the concert last night?
Yes! She really knows how to capture everyone's attention.
It must be exciting to be in the limelight like that.
Definitely! I think it takes a lot of confidence to perform like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
spotlight
attention
fame
Antonyms
obscurity
neglect
anonymity
verb
Definition
To attract or draw attention to oneself, often in a public setting.
Example
The actor stepped into the limelight after winning the award.
Tense Forms
Past: limelighted
Past Participle: limelighted
Conversation
I've been thinking about ways to limelight our project during the presentation.
That's a great idea! We need to grab everyone's attention.
Maybe we could use some visuals to really limelight our main points.
Root Explanation
Limelight → The word is formed from "lime" (from Middle English *lyme*, meaning a type of light produced by burning lime) and "light" (meaning illumination). Limelight originally referred to a bright light created by heating lime, which was used in theaters to illuminate performers on stage.
Memory Tip
Imagine a bright light created by burning lime, which helps you remember that 'limelight' refers to the spotlight or attention given to someone, especially in a performance.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.