noun
actor
AK-tuh
noun
1
A person who performs roles in plays, films, or television shows.
"The actor spent months preparing for his role as the detective."
2
A person or organization that participates in or influences an event or situation.
"Several state actors were involved in the negotiations."
How to Use Actor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who performs a part on screen or stage — or, more broadly, anyone or anything taking part in an event.
UK vs US
Modern usage in both UK and US English increasingly uses "actor" for women too, though "actress" is still common, especially in awards contexts.
Common pairings
lead actor
supporting actor
state actor
Word Forms
actors plural
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The _____ spent months preparing for his role as the detective.
Etymology
From Latin actor ("doer"), from agere ("to do, to act").