See Also: limelight(dictionary)
limelight(encyclopedia)
limelight(dictionary)

limelight (iou)



limelight noun & verb. E19.
[from LIME noun1 + LIGHT noun.]
A. noun.
The intense white light produced by heating lime in an oxyhydrogen flame, formerly used in theatres to light up important players and scenes and so direct attention to them; a lamp producing such light (cf. DRUMMOND LIGHT). E19.
the limelight, the full glare of publicity; people's full attention. L19.
E. Lewis We earned..a nice little sum out of Tutankhamen when he was in the limelight. P. Ustinov A puppy will steal the limelight from even a well-loved dog.
b. verb trans. Pa. t. & pple -lighted, -lit. Illuminate with limelight or other strong light; make a focus of publicity or attention. E20.