spotlight

/ˈspɒtˌlaɪt/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: spotlights · spotlighting · spotlighted

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A bright, directional light or lamp, especially one used to illuminate the focus or center of attention on a stage.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The circle of light shed by a spotlight.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To illuminate with a spotlight.

Verb

Examples

We spotlight the star, but the supporting cast has all the great lines in this scene.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To draw attention to.

Verb

Examples

The news series served to spotlight corruption.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “spotlight” mean?

A bright, directional light or lamp, especially one used to illuminate the focus or center of attention on a stage.

Is “spotlight” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.