leading light

noun

: a prominent and influential member (as of a community or church)

Examples of leading light in a Sentence

He is one of the leading lights of the labor movement.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Certainly, the leading lights of U.S. conservatism do. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 Yes, the emerging dispensation has room for a few Rogan-level leading lights. Ross Douthat, The Mercury News, 16 Oct. 2024 Tom Brady Can't Have It Both Ways For example, NBA fans always thirsted for its two leading lights, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, to go shot for shot in the Finals. Sean Gregory, TIME, 25 Oct. 2024 Then, in 1980, the RSS set up a political wing, the BJP, where Modi emerged as a leading light. Andrew Cockburn, Harper's Magazine, 20 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for leading light 

Word History

First Known Use

1707, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leading light was in 1707

Dictionary Entries Near leading light

Cite this Entry

“Leading light.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leading%20light. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

leading light

noun
: a prominent and influential member (as of a field of study or political movement)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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