understudy Definition
an actor who learns the part of another actor so as to be a substitute if necessary.
Using understudy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "understudy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The understudy was called in when the lead actor fell ill.
Example
She was hired as an understudy for the main role in the play.
Example
The director asked the understudy to rehearse the part with the lead actor.
understudy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for understudy
- replacement
- substitute
- alternate
- stand-in
Phrases with understudy
to learn and be prepared to take over someone's job or role if necessary
Example
I'm understudying the lead role in case she gets sick.
a person who is trained to take over someone's job or role if necessary
Example
She was the understudy for the lead actress in the play.
a person who is trained by someone else to take over their job or role if necessary
Example
He was the understudy to the director of the play.
Origins of understudy
from 'under-' meaning 'in a subordinate position' and 'study' meaning 'to learn'
Summary: understudy in Brief
'Understudy' [ˈʌndərstʌdi] refers to an actor who learns the part of another actor to be a substitute if necessary. It is common in theater productions, where the understudy may be called upon to perform if the lead actor is unable to. The term is also used as a verb, as in 'I'm understudying the lead role in case she gets sick.' Synonyms include 'stand-in' and 'replacement,' while informal terms include 'backup' and 'fill-in.'
