noun
understudy
UHN-duhs-tuh-dee
noun
1
A performer who learns a role well enough to step in if the usual actor cannot perform.
"The understudy got her big break when the lead actress fell ill."
verb
1
To learn a role thoroughly so as to be ready to replace the regular performer.
"He understudied the lead for six months before finally getting his own show."
How to Use Understudy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone ready to take over a role or job if the usual person can't do it.
Common pairings
act as an understudy
understudy for the lead
Word Forms
understudied past tense, understudies plural, understudies singular
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The _____ got her big break when the lead actress fell ill.
Etymology
From under- plus study, reflecting the idea of studying a role "beneath" or in support of the main performer.