Definitions

acting

[ak-ting] / ˈæk tɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

substituting in a role

Synonyms

STRONG

adjutant alternate assistant delegated deputy interim surrogate temporary

WEAK

ad interim pro tem pro tempore provisional

Antonyms

WEAK

permanent

NOUN

entertaining, performing

Synonyms

STRONG

assuming characterization depiction dramatics dramatizing enacting enactment feigning hamming histrionics imitating imitation impersonation improvisation mime mimicry pantomime performance playing portrayal portraying posing posturing pretending pretense putting rendition seeming simulating stagecraft stooging theatre theatricals

WEAK

play acting showing off

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Travolta was bitten by the acting bug early.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

Claire Brosseau has travelled the world doing stand-up comedy and acting in television shows, films and plays.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

But there is always enough in the writing, and the acting, to keep things straight.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

I spoke with Sofia Cañon, Colombia’s acting vice minister for trade, at an investor conference the Colombian government held in New York City earlier this month.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

I couldn’t believe that I was back in the same awful position, acting the jerk by running my mouth off to Elliot Mason.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

acting

Example Sentences

Related Words