noun

understudy

understudy, standby

The understudy performed the role perfectly.

The understudy performed the role perfectly.

((an understudy)) ((for sb.)) a substitute for someone She was the understudy for the lead actress.

Synonyms: substitute, replacement, standby, alternate

From 'under' and 'study'. Someone who studies a role 'under' the main actor, ready to replace them.

Imagine an actor 'studying' their lines 'under' the stage, ready to go on at a moment's notice.

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