spotlight

Etymology

From spot + light.

noun

1. A bright, directional light or lamp, especially one used to illuminate the focus or center of attention on a stage.
2. (by extension) The circle of light shed by a spotlight.
3. (figurative) The center of attention; the highlight or most important part.
   Some people enjoy the spotlight.

verb

1. (transitive) To illuminate with a spotlight.
   We spotlight the star, but the supporting cast has all the great lines in this scene.
2. (transitive, figurative) To draw attention to.
   The news series served to spotlight corruption.
3. Synonym of jacklight (“to use a spotlight in hunting animals”)