Dictionary

set piece

noun

: a scene in a movie or play, an image in a painting, a piece of music, etc., that has a familiar style or pattern and that creates a particular and usually dramatic effect

: a carefully planned and performed group of movements in sports

Full Definition of SET PIECE

1
a :  a composition (as in literature, art, or music) executed in a fixed or ideal form often with studied artistry and brilliant effect
b :  a scene, depiction, speech, or event that is obviously designed to have an imposing effect
2
:  a realistic piece of stage scenery standing by itself
3
:  a precisely planned and conducted military operation <an offensive set piece that caught the enemy off guard>
set–piece adjective
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First Known Use of SET PIECE

1834

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