acting

American  

[ak-ting] / ˈæk tɪŋ /

adjective

1. serving temporarily, especially as a substitute during another's absence; not permanent; temporary.

   the acting mayor.

   Synonyms:

   interim, provisional

2. designed, adapted, or suitable for stage performance.

3. provided with detailed stage directions for the performer.

   an acting version of a play.

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noun

1. the art, profession, or activity of those who perform in stage plays, motion pictures, etc.

acting British  

/ ˈæktɪŋ /

adjective

1. taking on duties temporarily, esp as a substitute for another

   the acting president

2. operating or functioning

   an acting order

3. intended for stage performance; provided with directions for actors

   an acting version of ``Hedda Gabler''

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noun

1. the art or profession of an actor

Other Word Forms

• proacting adjective
• unacting adjective

Etymology

Origin of acting

First recorded in 1595–1605; act + -ing ², -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Martin began acting in the 1960s, having previously worked in factories and as a butcher at Smithfield Market in the City of London.

From BBC

“Sally was an artist in pottery, singing, acting and living life to the fullest,” Hammel-Sawyer said, and she was very excited to learn basketry.

From Los Angeles Times

One, because she’s been on the radar for years as just a multitude of things, she’s multifaceted: Teyana Taylor can dance, she can sing, she’s just all of that and now acting alongside Leonardo DiCaprio.

From Los Angeles Times

In this proof of concept, information was encoded into the UV-C laser by the source-transmitter and then successfully decoded by the 2D semiconductor sensor acting as the receiver.

From Science Daily

As a result, the tidal forces acting on Europa are much weaker, reducing their ability to generate heat and drive geological activity, Byrne explained.

From Science Daily