actress
noun (countable)
UKˈæk.trəsUSˈæk.trəs
a female performer who acts in plays, films, or television shows (though ‘actor’ is commonly used for all genders in modern usage)
Example Sentences
The young actress impressed the casting directors with her range and emotional depth.
She won several awards for her portrayal of historical figures, becoming a renowned actress in the industry.
Many people believe that an actress faces different challenges than her male counterparts, particularly when it comes to certain genre roles and pay equity.
As a dedicated actress, she studied every nuance of the character’s personality to deliver an authentic performance on stage.
Her transition from a child actress to a respected leading lady was closely followed by the public and media alike.
A famous actress often has a packed schedule, juggling rehearsals, promotional events, and film shoots across multiple time zones.
While the term actress was once standard, many professionals now prefer using the word actor for all genders, reflecting evolving attitudes towards language and inclusivity in the performing arts, even though ‘actress’ remains in use in some contexts.
Performing in theater allowed the up-and-coming actress to hone her craft in front of a live audience, gaining invaluable experience and confidence that later propelled her to stardom in film and television.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A female performer who portrays characters in theater, film, or television productions.“Actress” traditionally refers to a female actor, though many modern circles favor the gender-neutral term “actor.” When you label someone an actress, you’re highlighting her role in performing fictional or real-life characters on stage or screen. The word often appears in credits, media coverage, and award categories (e.g., “Best Actress”) to honor distinguished female performances.Much like their male counterparts, actresses audition for roles, study scripts, and collaborate with directors and fellow cast members to bring stories to life. They might appear in diverse mediums: theater, TV, film, streaming services, or even digital shorts. Training can include workshops, drama school, or on-the-job experience, emphasizing skills such as vocal projection, physical expression, and emotional authenticity. In casual conversation, you could say, “She’s my favorite actress—she nailed that dramatic role perfectly!” or “The actress who played the lead in that indie film was incredible.”Depending on context and cultural preference, “actor” is commonly used as a gender-neutral term. However, “actress” remains widely recognized and persists in various awards, casting notices, and public discourse. Be mindful of personal or industry preferences when deciding which term to use, since some performers specifically identify as an “actress,” while others prefer the gender-neutral “actor.”
Alternatives
To describe a woman who performs, you can use “actor,” emphasizing a more gender-neutral approach. Some alternatives include “performer,” “player,” or “thespian,” though these carry broader or more classical connotations. In film or theater reviews, phrases like “leading lady” highlight a primary female role, while “female lead” is a modern variation. “Star” can highlight fame or recognition, without specifying the medium or gender. Meanwhile, “cast member” is a neutral term indicating that she’s part of an ensemble, focusing on the production rather than her specific role. In professional or industry contexts, you might see “female performer” if a description requires clarity. The choice between “actress” and “actor” can depend on the speaker’s or writer’s preference, the formality of the situation, or how the individual identifies. Ultimately, each term underscores that the person is a professional who interprets characters on stage or screen, but “actress” remains a traditional label for a woman in this profession, especially in awards and media coverage.
Writing
When writing about an actress, specify her domain—film, television, theater—and highlight notable roles or achievements. For a professional profile or biography, include significant parts she’s performed, awards won, or training backgrounds. If analyzing her contribution to a production, describe her acting style, emotional range, and the chemistry she brings to scenes.In criticism or journalism, mention the specific elements that made her performance stand out: subtle facial expressions, strong stage presence, or impressive versatility across genres (from comedy to drama). Likewise, referencing her collaborations (directors, co-stars, production teams) can show how she fits into a larger creative tapestry. Even in casual contexts—like a social media review—you might say, “That actress stole every scene she was in,” praising her on-screen magnetism. By providing context about the medium, role, and standout moments, you give readers a deeper sense of why a particular actress deserves praise or attention.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, calling someone an “actress” immediately tells people she acts professionally (or as an amateur in theater). You might say, “I love that actress—she’s hilarious in every comedy she does!” or “I just discovered a talented actress in a new series on Netflix.” Keep the tone informal by focusing on her performance or personality, not always the specifics of technique or background.If you’re talking about a friend who performs in local plays or student films, you could say, “She’s an aspiring actress; she’s been auditioning around town.” Such casual use of “actress” conveys enthusiasm and respect for her pursuit. It’s also typical to joke with friends when someone acts melodramatic—“Okay, calm down, Miss Actress!”—recognizing they’re playing up emotions like a stage performer. In casual banter, “actress” can simply hint at theatrical flair or comedic exaggeration without diving into professional details.
Etymology
“Actress” stems from the root word “actor,” which originated from the Latin “actorem” (doer) and “agere” (to do). Historically, as acting roles expanded beyond male-only performers, the English language adopted a feminine suffix—“ess”—to distinguish women in the profession. This formation resembles similar constructs in older English and French terms, such as “host” and “hostess,” “prince” and “princess,” or “waiter” and “waitress.”During earlier eras, female performers were uncommon, especially in formal stage productions, where men often played female roles. Over time, as women gained broader acceptance and star power in theater and, later, in film industries, “actress” became a standard term. Today, with shifting norms around gender identification, many prefer “actor” as a neutral title, although “actress” remains embedded in awards ceremonies (like the Academy Awards’ “Best Actress”) and cultural conversation. This linguistic evolution reflects broader social changes in professional roles and gender equality in the performing arts.
