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noun Uncommon

diva

DEE-vuh

Diva (noun) means a famous female singer or performer, especially in opera. Example: “The opera diva received a standing ovation.”

noun
1
A famous female singer or performer, especially in opera.
"The opera diva received a standing ovation."
2
Someone, often used loosely for anyone, who is demanding, temperamental, and expects special treatment.
"He acted like a total diva about the seating arrangement."

How to Use Diva

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA star performer — or, informally, someone who behaves like they deserve special treatment.

Common mistake

The informal "acting like a diva" sense is now used for anyone demanding, not just singers.

Common pairings
opera diva act like a diva total diva

Word Forms

divas plural, dive plural

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The opera _____ received a standing ovation.

Etymology

From Italian diva, "goddess" or celebrated female singer, from Latin dīva, the feminine form of dīvus, "divine."

Origin: Latin

prima donna star leading lady songstress drama queen

Related Words

Rhymes for diva

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “diva” mean?

The word “diva” means a famous female singer or performer, especially in opera. In plain terms, a star performer — or, informally, someone who behaves like they deserve special treatment.

How do you pronounce “diva”?

“Diva” is pronounced DEE-vuh (/ˈdiː.və/ in IPA).

How do you use “diva” in a sentence?

Here is “diva” used in a sentence: “The opera diva received a standing ovation.”

What part of speech is “diva”?

“Diva” is a noun.

Where does the word “diva” come from?

The word “diva” comes from Latin. From Italian diva, "goddess" or celebrated female singer, from Latin dīva, the feminine form of dīvus, "divine.".

Is “diva” a common word?

“Diva” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “diva” have?

“Diva” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a famous female singer or performer, especially in opera.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial