Thespian

American  

[thes-pee-uhn] / ˈθɛs pi ən /

adjective

1. (often lowercase) pertaining to tragedy or to the dramatic art in general.

2. of or characteristic of Thespis.

3. of or relating to Thespiae.

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noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a tragedian; an actor or actress.

Thespian British  

/ ˈθɛspɪən /

adjective

1. of or relating to Thespis

2. (usually not capital) of or relating to drama and the theatre; dramatic

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noun

1. facetious an actor or actress

Etymology

Origin of Thespian

First recorded in 1665–75; Thespi(s) + -an

Example Sentences

He isn’t the only thespian in the cast.

From Salon

While he adjusted to life as a thespian pretty quickly, play-punching was a matter of not mixing messages for the former wrestling champion.

From Los Angeles Times

To learn more you must ask your nearest thespian, but be sure to inquire about the “Scottish play” and under no circumstances say the title even if you do know what it is.

From Literature

However, any lawyer, judge, or professional thespian will tell you that there are times when knowing the exact words is essential; for example, when performing the role of Hamlet, or when given the task of ending a wolfish family curse.

From Literature

Was the parrot—this thespian parrot, impersonating a pirate’s parrot, with a miniature costume eye patch covering one beady little bird eye—was this talented avian of the stage howling?

From Literature