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Region: General | Usage example: She became the center of attention when the host arrived.

Center of attention

Meaning

The person or thing receiving the most focus.

Usage

Used when discussing someone dominating a scene.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Stagecraft language that described the spotlight.

Theater goers used the metaphor in the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Life of the party

The most entertaining or energetic person in a social gathering.

Loose cannon

An unpredictable person who might cause damage.

Bark is worse than its bite

A threat seems scary, but the person is harmless.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.