bit player

American  

noun

1. an actor having a very small speaking part in a play, motion picture, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of bit player

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Experts say 2025 heralds the Grinch’s ascent from Yuletide bit player to Christmas A-lister.

From Los Angeles Times

Xu is a bit player in what has become one of the biggest segments of China’s labor market.

From The Wall Street Journal

So as soon as he got to Oklahoma City, Mitchell set about emulating them, studying film of Wiggins and Caruso making the right offensive reads and defensive rotations—the details that can turn a bit player into a regular on a title-winning team.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sauerkraut has long been a bit player in the American diet, topping the occasional hot dog or Reuben sandwich.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The headline in the business section of the Times was: 'Unknown Bit Player Buys Warner Brothers,'" he recalls with a laugh.

From BBC