acting

[ak-ting]

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.

noun

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

acting

/ 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''

noun

1. the art or profession of an actor

Other Word Forms

• proacting adjective
• unacting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acting¹

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

Example Sentences

What makes all this even more painful is the knowledge that the RSF isn’t acting alone.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Joy, confusion, fascination and despair take over her entire face instantaneously, turning Buckley’s performance into an acting exercise of being raw and present.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

So my first acting job was cold-calling customers and reading a script to sell them a cleaning product.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Afterwards, he also took over the role of acting director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Read more on BBC

Lee was acting until last year, when he won the grand prize at the KBS Drama Awards for his lead role in the comedy series, Dog Knows Everything.

Read more on BBC