walk-on

American  

[wawk-on, -awn] / ˈwɔkˌɒn, -ˌɔn /

noun

1. Also called walking part.  a small part in a play or other entertainment, especially one without speaking lines.

2. an entertainer or actor who plays such a part.

3. an athlete trying out for a team who has not been drafted, specifically invited, scouted, awarded a scholarship, etc.

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walk-on British  

noun

1. 1. a small part in a play or theatrical entertainment, esp one without any lines

   2. ( as modifier )

      a walk-on part

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adjective

1. (of an aircraft or air service) having seats to be booked immediately before departure rather than in advance

Etymology

Origin of walk-on

First recorded in 1900–05; noun use of verb phrase walk on

Example Sentences

Ever since he stepped in for the Trojans’ top backs, two months earlier, the walk-on running back was USC’s biggest bright spot.

From Los Angeles Times

But the Trojan walk-on was totally neutralized by Oregon’s stout defensive front.

From Los Angeles Times

In a media release, the district stated that Poly’s walk-on head coach has been released and won’t be allowed to coach in the district.

From Los Angeles Times

No one anticipated the arrival of redshirt freshman walk-on King Miller, who has been a season-saving revelation since being thrust into the role as the Trojans’ lead back.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2023, he enrolled at Hawaii as a walk-on, and earned the starting kicking role one season later.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• artist
• character
• clown
• comedian
• entertainer
• performer
• player
• star
• villain