English Reference

Word

centerpiece

Phoneticscen·ter·piece, stress on the first syllable

/ˈsɛntɝˌpis/

UK spelling · centrepiece

Countable noun

Definition

n. the most important part of something, or a decoration placed in the middle of a table.

n. the central or most important feature of an item, event, or arrangement; also refers to an ornamental object placed in the middle of a dining table.

Examples

“The new stadium is the centerpiece of the city's plan.”

“A large bowl of fresh fruit served as the centerpiece for the wedding reception table.”

“The proposed tax reform became the centerpiece of the candidate's campaign, drawing both intense support from local businesses and sharp criticism from opposition leaders.”

Examples

simple

“The new stadium is the centerpiece of the city's plan.”

contextual

“A large bowl of fresh fruit served as the centerpiece for the wedding reception table.”

complex

“The proposed tax reform became the centerpiece of the candidate's campaign, drawing both intense support from local businesses and sharp criticism from opposition leaders.”

Usage

Often used metaphorically to describe the primary focus of a policy, project, or argument.

Real-World Examples

“It's rare for Democrats to make religion a centerpiece of their campaigns.”
NPR 27 Sept 2026
“The General Debate - the centrepiece of the annual event - is due to begin on Tuesday.”
BBC News 17 Sept 2026

Word family

NOUN

centerpiece(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference