understudy

[ uhn-der-stuhd-ee ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·stud·ied, un·der·stud·y·ing.

1. to learn (a role) in order to replace the regular actor or actress when necessary.
2. to act as understudy to (an actor or actress):

   to understudy the lead.

verb (used without object)

, un·der·stud·ied, un·der·stud·y·ing.

1. to act or work as an understudy.

noun

, plural un·der·stud·ies.

1. a performer who learns the role of another in order to serve as a replacement if necessary.

understudy

/ ˈʌndəˌstʌdɪ /

verb

1. tr to study (a role or part) so as to be able to replace the usual actor or actress if necessary
2. to act as understudy to (an actor or actress)

noun

1. an actor or actress who studies a part so as to be able to replace the usual actor or actress if necessary
2. anyone who is trained to take the place of another in case of need

Word History and Origins

Origin of understudy¹

First recorded in 1870–75; under- + study

Example Sentences

"The purpose of the present study was to examine hobby -- an understudied but prevalent part of the nonwork domain -- to understand if and how MMO gaming positively enriches employees' work domain," said Shirmohammadi.

From Science Daily

"African music is really complex and it’s one of the most understudied types of music," he told the BBC.

From BBC

England's understudies and new caps stood up to be counted – and Liverpool's 23-year-old midfielder Jones provided the high point of the night seven minutes from time, capping a top-class first senior appearance in joyous style.

From BBC

Tallying the understudied toll of war on human health matters because conflict is “really a political choice,” Flaxman said.

From Salon

Barring a gutsy comeback from Ethan Garbers, his understudy will make his first college start Saturday against No. 7 Penn State at Beaver Stadium.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• backup
• stand-in