ETYM Latin actor, from agere to act.
1. A person who acts and gets things done; SYN. doer, worker.
2. A theatrical performer; SYN. histrion, player, thespian, role player.
Performer who takes one or more role(s) in a play or film. In ancient Greece, the speaking actors were distinguished from the chorus, whereas in ancient Indian and in medieval Japanese drama, singing and dance or stylized movement characterized the performers. Body and (in unmasked drama) facial mobility, vocal control, and an ability to portray character and emotional states are skills that have been held in common by actors throughout the ages.
Someone who (fraudulently) assumes the appearance of another; SYN. imitator.
An entertainer who performs a dramatic or musical work for an audience; SYN. performing artist.