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Starring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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starring

[หˆstษ‘หrษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

film production

Starring refers to the act of being featured prominently in a film, television show, or stage production. When an actor is described as starring in a production, it indicates their principal role and importance to the storyline. This term often highlights the lead actors whose performances carry the bulk of the narrative. The use of 'starring' is common in promotional materials, credits, and reviews, underlining the significance of the actors in attracting audiences.

Synonyms

appearing, featuring, headlining.

Examples of usage

  • The movie is starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
  • This play features a diverse cast, starring several famous actors.
  • She is starring in a new TV series this fall.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The first movie to use the term 'starring' in its credits was 'The Birth of a Nation' (1915), featuring D.W. Griffith as a prominent filmmaker.
  • Typically, big-name actors are offered starring roles to attract audiences, leading to the term 'box office stars'.

Theater

  • In theater, a 'starring role' is often associated with considerable public interest and anticipation, often overshadowing other actors.
  • Stage performances frequently highlight starring actors with special promotional marketing to boost ticket sales.

Psychology

  • Starring roles can create a celebrity effect, where audiences are more likely to engage with media featuring well-known actors due to perceived quality.
  • People often relate to characters played by starring actors, enhancing empathy and emotional responses.

Literature

  • The concept of starring isn't limited to film; novels and plays also describe leads as starring characters who drive the plot.
  • Famous literary figures often have adaptations of their stories that include starring roles in movies and TV shows.

Origin of 'starring'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'starring' comes from the word 'star,' which has been used since the 1300s to describe famous actors.
  • Initially, 'to star' meant to play a leading role and date back to the late 19th century in theater contexts.

The term 'starring' is derived from the noun 'star', which refers to a prominent performer, particularly in the arts, such as theater, film, or music. Its origins trace back to the Old English word 'steorra', which meant 'star' in the celestial sense, evolving its modern application in the context of performance and celebrity by the late 19th century. As the film industry grew in the early 20th century, the concept of 'starring' became increasingly associated with major film productions and high-profile actors. The idea of a 'star' in the entertainment industry not only signifies talent and allure but also draws public interest and ticket sales, leading to the widespread use of 'starring' in film credits to showcase the talent that audiences can expect to see.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,871, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.