centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsen-tər-ˌpēs 

ˈse-nər-

1

: an object occupying a central position

especially : an adornment in the center of a table

2

: one that is of central importance or interest in a larger whole

the centerpiece of a political agenda

Synonyms

• bottom line
• bull's-eye
• core
• crux
• essence
• gist
• heart
• kernel
• keynote
• meat
• meat and potatoes
• net
• nub
• nubbin
• nucleus
• pith
• pivot
• point
• root
• sum

Examples of centerpiece in a Sentence

resolution of the original dispute became the centerpiece of the negotiations

Recent Examples on the Web

Now priced at nearly $3.3 million, the home’s stylish centerpiece is undoubtedly its eat-in kitchen, which flaunts striking marble countertops and backsplash. —James McClain, Robb Report, 26 Apr. 2024

The bathrooms and gear are nice and notable, but the centerpiece at Buc-ee’s is its food, built around a barbecue program helmed by world champion pitmaster Randy Pauly. —Drew Jackson, Miami Herald, 25 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

centerpiece

noun

cen·​ter·​piece ˈsent-ər-ˌpēs 

: a piece put in the center of something and especially a decoration (as flowers) for the center of a table