screen test

¹

noun

1. a filmed audition to determine the suitability of an individual for appearing or acting in a motion picture.

screen-test

²

[ skreen-test ]

verb (used with object)

1. to give a screen test to:

   The studio screen-tested 400 children before casting the part.

verb (used without object)

1. to undergo a screen test:

   Dozens of actors have screen-tested for the role.

screen test

noun

1. a filmed audition of a prospective actor or actress to test suitability
2. the test film so made

Word History and Origins

Origin of screen test¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Origin of screen test²

First recorded in 1965–70; v. use of noun phrase screen test

Example Sentences

Another challenge functions as a screen test in which the contestants play men competing for the attention of a cute instructor at a wreath-making class.

From Los Angeles Times

According to “Live From New York,” Chase appeared as a “fatuous anchorman” in screen tests weeks before the premiere.

From Los Angeles Times

They flew me to Korea for the first screen test.

From Salon

When he first got into Hollywood, he did a screen test, he got rejected for being rubbish.

From Salon

For how many hours did he stare into the mirror, practicing that defiant look, like a fading movie star preparing for a screen test?

From Seattle Times