Meaning of the word understudy in English

What does understudy mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

understudy

US /ˈʌn.dɚˌstʌd.i/
UK /ˈʌn.dəˌstʌd.i/
"understudy" picture

Noun

an actor who learns the role of another actor in a play so as to be able to replace them if necessary

Example:
•
She was the understudy for the lead role in the Broadway show.
•
The director asked the understudy to be ready to perform.

Verb

to learn (a role) as an understudy

Example:
•
She had to understudy the role of Juliet for several weeks.
•
He was asked to understudy the lead singer in case of illness.