stage
1stage
noun \ˈstāj\Definition of STAGE
1
a : one of a series of positions or stations one above the other : step b : the height of the surface of a river above an arbitrary zero point <flood stage>
2
a (1) : a raised platform (2) : the part of a theater on which the acting takes place and which often includes the wings (3) : the acting profession : the theater as an occupation or activity (4) : soundstage b : a center of attention or scene of action
3
a : a scaffold for workmen b : the small platform of a microscope on which an object is placed for examination
4
a : a place of rest formerly provided for those traveling by stagecoach : station b : the distance between two stopping places on a road c : stagecoach
5
a : a period or step in a process, activity, or development: as (1) : one of the distinguishable periods of growth and development of a plant or animal <the larval stage of an insect> (2) : a period or phase in the course of a disease; also : the degree of involvement or severity of a disease b : one passing through a (specified) stage
6
: an element or part of an electronic device (as an amplifier)
7
: one of two or more sections of a rocket that have their own fuel and engine
— stage·ful \-ˌfu̇l\ noun
— stage·like \-ˌlīk\ adjective
— on the stage
: in or into the acting profession
See Examples of STAGE
- an early stage of the disease
- children at the same stage of development
- The actors walked out onto the stage.
- He was on stage for the entire show.
- He has no intention of leaving the political stage.
- The company wants to compete on the world stage.
Origin of STAGE
Middle English, from Anglo-French estage abode, story of a building, state, from Vulgar Latin *staticum, from Latin stare to stand — more at stand
First Known Use: 14th century
Related to STAGE
Other Performing Arts Terms
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