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

“Waiting for a definitive inflection point before acting is not a viable risk management posture,” he said.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

She had second thoughts when she found that she couldn’t book acting gigs overseas since she was an American.

From Salon • May 22, 2026

Announcing the charges in Miami on Wednesday, acting Atty.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

The other is more direct: receptors for GLP-1, the hormone these drugs mimic, appear on the surface of some tumor cells, raising the possibility that the drugs are acting on cancer biology itself.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

“You can’t punch someone every time they’re acting a fool,” says Titus.

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila