Synonyms for

Spotlight

Verb / ˈspɑ:ˌtlaɪt / Another word for spotlight — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a strong beam of light that illuminates a small area

Synonyms & similar words

publiceye background spot highlight limelight playdown foreground playup glare floodlight searchlight beam focus glare radiance shine illumination lighting lamp lantern torch flame candle flashlight lantern lanthorn luminary

Synonyms by register

Formal

focus prominence illumination prominence

Informal

limelight center stage the whole show

Literary

effulgence radiance luminescence

Antonyms

shadow obscurity darkness gloom background unimportance

Common collocations

  • in the spotlight
  • spotlight on
  • spotlight interview
  • spotlight feature
  • spotlight award
  • spotlight on the issue
  • under the spotlight

Word family

noun spotlight
verb spotlight

Usage note

While 'spotlight' can refer to a literal light, it is more commonly used metaphorically to mean the center of public attention or notice. Avoid using it for very minor or insignificant events.

Example sentences

  1. The spotlight was on the basketball player when he made the winning shot.
  2. The spotlight illuminated the dark stage for the dancers.
  3. The actor walked into the spotlight for his big scene.
  4. The spotlight was too bright for my eyes to handle.
  5. The spotlight revealed the hidden treasure in the cave.

Quotes

  • 'A spotlight on my face and a microphone stuck in front of my lips.' - Willa Ford
  • 'The spotlight shifts. My heart beats faster as I step forward.' - Suzanne Collins
  • 'There's something about a live performance where you can see the sweat on people's faces and you know that they're in that moment and that they're creating that moment for you. And that's something really special that you can't get from just seeing things in the spotlight.' - Jack Antonoff

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