Prof. Edward Keen's definitions

limelight

Originating from the bubonic plague that decimated populations across Europe, this term refers to the dim light that was associated with the lime pits used to decompose the vast number of corpses.

On occasion, people were in comatose states when put in the pits and would awaken in a decaying state and wonder around the lime-pit while crowds of people would gather to stare at this horrific spectacle. This term was later used to describe a unique stage lighting effect, hence ; to be in the lime light means; to be the centre of attention.

by Prof. Edward Keen January 17, 2005