26984 words

spotlight

6 definitions • 5 examples
1
a lamp whose beam can be directed, or a circle of light produced by such a lamp
2
(of a person) receiving a lot of public attention:

Examples:

The senator has been in the spotlight recently since the revelation of his tax frauds.
3
to light something or someone with a spotlight:

Examples:

The paintings in the alcove were spotlit from below.
4
If something spotlights a particular situation, it directs public attention to it.
5
a circle of strong light that comes from a lamp whose beam can be directed:

Examples:

Spotlights followed the two dancers around the stage.
fig. The incident brought toxic waste into the national spotlight (= directed attention to it).
6
to light someone or something with a spotlight:

Examples:

fig. Special-interest groups are effective at spotlighting neglected issues (= directing attention to them).

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