actress

noun

ac·​tress ˈak-trəs How to pronounce actress (audio)
Synonyms of actressnext
: a woman or girl who is an actor
actressy adjective

Examples of actress in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The actor is currently dating Daniela Norman, an actress who starred in 2019's Cats and the 2020 Netflix dance drama Tiny Pretty Things. Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 14 Jan. 2026 The season was nominated for 16 Emmys, including best drama series, and won two for guest actress Michaela Coel and stunt coordination. Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 13 Jan. 2026 Wyle also took home the trophy for outstanding actor in a drama series, while his co-star Katherine LaNasa won for outstanding supporting actress. Ashley Hume , Larry Fink, FOXNews.com, 13 Jan. 2026 The Substance actress stunned in a V-neck LBD featuring dainty spaghetti straps and an effortless silhouette, complementing her barely-there makeup. Lara Walsh, InStyle, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for actress

Word History

Etymology

actor + -ess

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of actress was in 1586

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Actress.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/actress. Accessed 18 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

actress

noun
ac·​tress ˈak-trəs How to pronounce actress (audio)
: a woman or girl who acts especially in a play or movie or on television

More from Merriam-Webster on actress

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