1. to move toward the front of a stage; to position oneself closer to the audience
Usage: theater/drama
2. to deliberately draw attention away from another performer; to overshadow or outshine
Usage: figurative

1. toward or at the front of a stage, closer to the audience
Usage: theater/drama

Examples

• The lead actor downstages to deliver the final monologue.
• She downstages her co-star by taking center stage during his scene.
• The director asked the ensemble to move downstages for better visibility.
• He downstages the other performers with his commanding presence.
• The spotlight follows the actor as she downstages toward the audience.
• In the second act, the chorus downstages to sing the chorus line.