understudy
verb (used with object)
to learn (a role) in order to replace the regular actor or actress when necessary.
had been understudying
-
past perfect progressiveof understudy.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Forbach had been understudying before being promoted to Rapunzel’s Prince for the touring production.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 16, 2023
Dela Cruz had been understudying Aladdin on Broadway for five years when his agent mentioned an audition for the new “Blue’s Clues.”
From New York Times ● Nov. 6, 2019
