Definition

Noun: * A performer, especially an actor, who attracts more attention from the audience than the other performers in the same scene or production, often through a particularly charismatic, humorous, or powerful performance.

Usage

This term is used to describe a performer whose presence and actions dominate a shared moment in a play, film, or show. It highlights the performer's ability to command focus, sometimes intentionally and sometimes as a natural result of their performance style. The word is often used in reviews, critiques, and casual discussions of performances.

Examples

• The veteran character actor was a notorious scene-stealer, often overshadowing the lead with just a few lines of dialogue.
• In every group performance, there's always one child who emerges as the scene-stealer.
• The review praised the supporting actress, calling her a charming scene-stealer in the second act.
• Puppies and babies are often accidental scene-stealers in movies.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically for any person or thing that diverts the main focus or attention in a given situation.
  • The sudden technical malfunction became the scene-stealer during the CEO's important announcement.

Variants and Related Words

• To steal the scene/show (Verb phrase): The action performed by a scene-stealer.
  • With that powerful monologue, she completely stole the scene.

Synonyms

• Showstopper
• Attention-grabber
• Spotlight-hogger (informal, can have a negative connotation)

Antonyms

• Background player
• Supporting actor (in the neutral, non-dominating sense)

Noun

1. an actor who draws more attention than other actors in the same scene
   • babies are natural scene-stealers