screen test

¹ American  

noun

1. a filmed audition to determine the suitability of an individual for appearing or acting in a motion picture.

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screen-test ² American  

[skreen-test] / ˈskrinˌtɛst /

verb (used with object)

1. to give a screen test to.

   The studio screen-tested 400 children before casting the part.

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verb (used without object)

1. to undergo a screen test.

   Dozens of actors have screen-tested for the role.

screen test British  

noun

1. a filmed audition of a prospective actor or actress to test suitability

2. the test film so made

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Etymology

Origin of screen test¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Origin of screen-test²

First recorded in 1965–70; v. use of noun phrase screen test

Example Sentences

The casting process for “Superman” was famously so tenuous that producer Ilya Salkind arranged for his wife’s dentist to get a screen test just because of his striking resemblance to the Man of Steel.

From Salon • Jul. 10, 2025

"Instead of doing a screen test and auditions, it was like, 'we've seen your videos, here's your mic, here's your earpiece, off you pop'," he says.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2025

Another challenge functions as a screen test in which the contestants play men competing for the attention of a cute instructor at a wreath-making class.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 31, 2024

The elusive screen test was reportedly kept under wraps for decades and allegedly was listed on EBay in 2021 for $1 million.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 24, 2023

I just needed to get a screen test with Warner Brothers.

From Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm