understudy
verb (used with object)
to learn (a role) in order to replace the regular actor or actress when necessary.
understudies
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pluralof understudy.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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present tense formof understudy (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
understudyverb (used with object)to learn (a role) in order to replace the regular actor or actress when necessary.
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.
England have already lost Will Stuart and Asher Opoku-Fordjour for the Six Nations leaving Vilikesa 'Billy' Sela and Trevor Davison, who have three caps between them, as understudies to Joe Heyes at tight-head.
From BBC ● Jan. 27, 2026
They were looking to go undefeated in AFC West games, and got to 5-0 with an array of understudies, particularly along the offensive line.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 4, 2026
Viewers watch as Jeanine intellectualizes each character’s motivations and inner thoughts, dictating them to the performers onstage and their understudies.
From Salon ● Mar. 12, 2025
His understudies, Jake Oettinger and Jeremy Swayman, are arguably better than any other goalie in the tournament.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 13, 2025
This done, principals and understudies, casting envious glances at one another, form one long column of route and set out for home, in charge of the subalterns.
From The First Hundred Thousand by Ian Hay
