# steal the show

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/steal-the-show
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be the best performer during a performance.

## Examples

- The young singer really stole the show tonight.
- Although the main actor was famous, the child in the background stole the show with his funny dance.
- Despite the elaborate stage design and professional orchestra, the lead violinist stole the show with a performance so moving that the audience stood in silence before cheering.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.