1. centers of attention or admiration; focal points that attract interest
Usage: formal; literary
2. guiding stars or principles; things that serve to direct or guide
Usage: formal; literary

Examples

• The twin towers became cynosures of the city’s skyline.
• Her elegant gowns made her one of the cynosures at every social gathering.
• The ancient philosophers served as cynosures for later thinkers.
• These moral principles remain cynosures for ethical behavior.
• The championship trophies were cynosures in the display case.
• Great leaders often become cynosures for their followers.