— limelighter , n.
/luym"luyt'/ , n.
1. Theat.
a. (formerly) a lighting unit for spotlighting the front of the stage, producing illumination by means of a flame of mixed gases directed at a cylinder of lime and having a special lens for concentrating the light in a strong beam.
b. the light so produced.
c. Chiefly Brit. a lighting unit, esp. a spotlight.
2. the center of public attention, interest, observation, or notoriety: He seems fond of the limelight.
[ 1820-30; LIME 1 + LIGHT 1 ]