Showing Results for "acting"

See Also:

• 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.

---

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''

---

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

Acting like a giant incinerator, the spinning flames destroy many of the particles responsible for dense smoke plumes.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche told lawmakers this week that the administration would not move forward with the fund.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emerged from a meeting with GOP senators and announced the fund was dead.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

Acting officials may only serve 210 days before they must be confirmed by the Senate, meaning Pulte's posting will expire in late January 2027.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

Acting injured, we swayed and landed on our backs.

From "Tasting the Sky" by Ibtisam Barakat