What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diva
Example
Mariah Carey is known for her diva-like behavior backstage. [diva: adjective]
Example
The opera singer performed like a true diva, captivating the audience with her powerful voice. [diva: noun]
icon
Example
Martin Luther King Jr. is an icon of the civil rights movement. [icon: noun]
Example
The red heart emoji has become an icon of love and affection in digital communication. [icon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Icon is more commonly used than diva in everyday language. Icon is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while diva is less common and refers to a specific type of female performer.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diva and icon?
While diva is typically associated with a more informal tone, icon can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.