thespian
UK: ˈθɛspiən | US: ˈθɛspiən
n. an actor or actress (formal or humorous)
adj. relating to drama or the theater
thespian = Thesp<Thespis> + ian<related to>
- Thesp (from Thespis, the name of the semi-legendary 6th-century BCE Greek poet and actor, often called the "father of tragedy")
- ian (suffix meaning "related to" or "belonging to," derived from Latin -ianus)
Etymology Origin:
The word thespian originates from Thespis, the earliest recorded actor in Greek theater. By adding the suffix -ian, the term evolved to denote anyone connected to acting or drama. Thespis is credited with stepping out of the Greek chorus to deliver solo lines, thus "inventing" acting as a distinct art form. The word humorously elevates performers by linking them to this foundational figure.
She pursued her dream of becoming a thespian and joined a local theater troupe.
The film festival attracted many renowned thespians from around the world.
His thespian talents shone during his portrayal of Hamlet.
The school’s thespian society will perform a modern adaptation of Romeo and Juliet.
Despite his fame, he remained humble about his thespian achievements.