English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

adj

thespian

THEHS-pee-uhn

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Thespian (adj) means relating to acting or drama; theatrical. Example: “She has always had thespian ambitions.”

adj

1

Relating to acting or drama; theatrical.

"She has always had thespian ambitions."

noun

1

An actor.

"The young thespian delivered a stunning performance."

How to use thespian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA somewhat old-fashioned or playful word for an actor, or anything related to acting.

When to use it

Slightly formal or humorous; "actor" is the everyday word.

Common pairings

a budding thespian thespian talents

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: thespians
Comparative: more thespian
Superlative: most thespian

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She has always had _____ ambitions.

Etymology

Named after Thespis, an ancient Greek actor said to be the first to perform in a play.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Synonyms

player actor histrion role player

Related words

game player agent actor worker actress athlete musician

Rhymes for thespian

Asian radian Fabian Indian Syrian simian median Italian Russian Persian Serbian Latvian

See all rhymes for thespian →

Frequently asked questions

What does “thespian” mean?

The word “thespian” means relating to acting or drama; theatrical. In plain terms, a somewhat old-fashioned or playful word for an actor, or anything related to acting.

How do you pronounce “thespian”?

“Thespian” is pronounced THEHS-pee-uhn (/ˈθɛzbi.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “thespian” in a sentence?

Here is “thespian” used in a sentence: “She has always had thespian ambitions.”

What part of speech is “thespian”?

Depending on how it is used, “thespian” can be an adjective and a noun.

Where does the word “thespian” come from?

The word “thespian” comes from Ancient Greek. Named after Thespis, an ancient Greek actor said to be the first to perform in a play.

How many meanings does “thespian” have?

“Thespian” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to acting or drama; theatrical.

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game player agent actor worker actress athlete musician