Stage

/steɪdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A specific period or phase in a process of development.

The project is currently in the planning stage.

A raised platform or area for performances, displays, or public speaking.

The actors took their positions on the stage as the audience applauded.

A distinct step in a progression or series.

We’ve reached a critical stage in the negotiations.

An area for a specified purpose, especially in a theater or concert hall.

The concert will feature several famous musicians on stage.

verb

To present a performance or event.

They will stage a play next weekend.

To arrange or set up an event, particularly in the context of a performance.

The production team worked hard to stage a spectacular show.

To prepare a home for sale by arranging furniture and decor attractively.

We decided to stage the house before putting it on the market.

Middle English 'staj', from Old French 'estage', from Latin 'statorium' meaning a standing place.

backstage

The area behind the stage, not visible to the audience, where performers prepare.

on stage

Performing in front of an audience.

stage fright

An anxiety felt by performers in front of an audience.

stage left/right

The left/right side of the stage from the performer's perspective.

take center stage

To become the focus of attention.

staging

The act of preparing a stage for a performance.

stagecraft

The art of designing and managing the theatrical stage.

stagehand

A person who works backstage at a theater.

stagecoach

A coach drawn by horses that was used for carrying passengers.

stager

A person who stages or organizes an event.

To stage something is to arrange or organize it, often in a dramatic or elaborate way.

They staged a surprise party for her birthday.

Stage is sometimes used to refer to a phase in life, especially in informal contexts.

He's going through a rebellious stage.