Question
Why do we say someone is “in the limelight” if they are the center of attention?
Answer
A limelight was an intense white light made by heating a cylinder of lime in an oxy-hydrogen flame. This method of lighting was invented in the 1820s, and used primarily in lighthouses. Later, limelights were developed for special lighting effects in theaters, much like a spotlight is used today. Hence, being in the limelight means being in the spotlight, or in the full glare of public interest.
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