Actress Meaning

UK /ˈæktrəs/
US /ˈæktrəs/
Word Definition
actress meaning

Actress Definition & Usage

noun

A woman who performs in plays, movies, or television shows, portraying characters for entertainment purposes.

Examples

  • "She’s a talented actress known for her versatile roles in both drama and comedy."
  • "The actress received critical acclaim for her portrayal of a troubled young woman."
  • "He is an actor, but his wife is an actress who has won several awards."
  • "The actress was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in the biographical film."
  • "At the premiere, the actress captivated the audience with her red carpet look and charming personality."
noun

A woman who performed in the theater, often with a focus on traditional, dramatic roles.

Examples

  • "In the early 20th century, the role of an actress was seen as a prestigious career choice."
  • "Many actresses in the Victorian era were trained in the classics and performed Shakespearean plays."
  • "The actress had a long career in the theater before transitioning to film."
  • "Historical actresses like Sarah Bernhardt were known for their grand performances on stage."
  • "The actress was celebrated for her powerful presence in the theater, captivating audiences night after night."
noun

A woman who pretends to be someone else in a dramatic or exaggerated way, often for comedic effect.

Examples

  • "At the costume party, she dressed up as a famous actress for laughs."
  • "He joked that she was an 'actress' because of her over-the-top reactions to everything."
  • "The kids put on a play, with one of them acting as a glamorous actress for fun."
  • "In the sketch comedy, the actress exaggerated her role to the point of absurdity, making everyone laugh."
  • "Her dramatic flair was so strong that people often joked she could be an actress in a soap opera."

Cultural Context

The term 'actress' has historically referred to a female performer in theater, film, or television. However, the evolution of language has seen a movement towards gender-neutral terms in many industries, including entertainment. Despite this, 'actress' remains in use to refer to women in the profession, particularly in more traditional contexts. In the 21st century, the debate over the use of 'actress' versus 'actor' has been influenced by shifting attitudes towards gender equality in the arts and entertainment.

The Rising Star

Story

The Rising Star

Lena had always dreamed of becoming an actress, but it was a tough road. Her journey began in a small community theater, where she was cast in minor roles that rarely earned applause. However, Lena's persistence paid off when she was given a breakthrough role as the lead in a local production of 'Romeo and Juliet.' The night of the premiere, she was both nervous and excited. Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary—her portrayal of Juliet captivated the audience, her emotions raw and real. The critics were quick to praise the young actress, and soon she was being invited to audition for films. Her transition from stage to screen wasn't easy, but Lena's passion for acting never wavered. In her first major movie role, she played a fierce warrior, a stark contrast to her romantic portrayal of Juliet. The critics again took note, and Lena’s fame skyrocketed. By the time she attended her first Academy Awards, she was no longer just an actress; she was a star. As she stood on the red carpet, glancing at the flashing cameras, Lena reflected on how far she'd come from those early days on the community theater stage. She smiled, knowing this was just the beginning of her acting career.

The Rising Star