cynosure
Say it: SIGH-nuh-shoor /ˈsɪnəzjʊə/ · noun
What “cynosure” means
The person or thing everyone notices or admires.
More precisely: A person or thing that is the centre of attention or admiration.
Example: “The new espresso machine became the cynosure of the office kitchen.”
When to use it
In formal or literary descriptions, for whatever attracts everyone's attention or admiration.
Similar words
focal point, centre of attention, magnet
Where it comes from
Greek kunosoura 'dog's tail', the Little Bear constellation sailors steered by.
Quick check
At a party, every guest gathers around one dazzling sculpture and admires it. What has the sculpture become?
a distraction or a cynosure?
Show the answer
a cynosure
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