acting

[ ak-ting ]

adjective

1. serving temporarily, especially as a substitute during another's absence; not permanent; temporary:

   the acting mayor.

   Synonyms: interim, provisional

2. designed, adapted, or suitable for stage performance.
3. provided with detailed stage directions for the performer:

   an acting version of a play.

noun

1. the art, profession, or activity of those who perform in stage plays, motion pictures, etc.

acting

/ ˈæktɪŋ /

adjective

1. taking on duties temporarily, esp as a substitute for another

   the acting president

2. operating or functioning

   an acting order

3. intended for stage performance; provided with directions for actors

   an acting version of ``Hedda Gabler''

noun

1. the art or profession of an actor

Other Words From

• pro·acting adjective
• un·acting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of acting¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; act + -ing ², -ing ¹

Example Sentences

The original production of the special was incorporated with skits, sketches and kitschy acting.

From Salon

The “White Lotus” actor in recent years has diversified her portfolio to showcase her acting chops and flexed her muscles as a producer with films “Immaculate” and “Anyone but You.”

From Los Angeles Times

All of his hiring decisions so far, including Monday’s news that former Immigration and Customs Enforcement acting Director Tom Homan will serve as Trump’s border czar, and then his selection of South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem—a proponent of Trump’s mass expulsion—as secretary of Homeland Security, signal that he actually intends to move forward with the insane idea to deport every single one of the at least 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States.

From Slate

In a statement to parliament, Gray said he should have attended a greater variety of games to avoid giving the impression he was acting "more as a fan and less as a minister".

From BBC

Carl is voiced by Kai Barham, who has autism and makes his acting debut with this series.

From Los Angeles Times