Showing results for "acting"

• present participle of act.

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

See Examples For:

acting

We asked him about this and he claimed he was acting in self-defence.

From BBC ● Aug. 17, 2026

“I’d never worked with Aaron before … but once we’re acting, it gets very intimate,” Chandler says.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 17, 2026

Winn attached his proposed letter, to be signed by Todd Lyons, then the acting director of ICE.

From Salon ● Aug. 15, 2026

Obesity drugs are not acting simply on the gut or pancreas.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 15, 2026

“You’re acting like you’re five, not fourteen—about to be fifteen. Dad told you he was bringing her for dinner,” I point out.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold