¦ noun
1. a point, period, or step in a process or development.
a section of a journey or race.
2. a raised floor or platform on which actors, entertainers, or speakers perform.
(the stage) the acting or theatrical profession.
3. a scene of action or forum of debate.
4. a floor of a building.
5. each of two or more sections of a rocket or spacecraft that are jettisoned in turn when their propellant is exhausted.
6. Electronics a part of a circuit containing a single amplifying transistor or valve.
7. a raised plate on a microscope on which a slide or specimen is placed for examination.
8. Geology a range of strata corresponding to an age in time, forming a subdivision of a series.
9. historical a stagecoach.
¦ verb
1. present a performance of (a play or other show).
organize and participate in (a public event).
cause (something dramatic or unexpected) to happen.
2. Medicine assign (a disease or patient) to a stage in a process.
Phrases
hold the stage dominate a scene of action or forum of debate.
set the stage for prepare the conditions for.
stage left (or right) on the left (or right) side of a stage from the point of view of a performer facing the audience.
Derivatives
stageability noun
stageable adjective
Origin
ME: shortening of OFr. estage 'dwelling', based on L. stare 'to stand'.