leading lady

noun

: an actress who plays the leading female role

Examples of leading lady in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As good as Oliver Stone is at pulling out incredible performances from his male stars, the same isn’t always true for his leading ladies. — Michael Douglas, Deadline, 8 Oct. 2026

So take the chance to watch this fearlessly brutal movie, featuring a great performance from its leading lady and one of the bloodiest climaxes in horror history. — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 8 Oct. 2026

Yet, Misty’s fate aside, this is a star-making role for Eleazar, Rock fully believing in his leading lady. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026

Leigh’s films have earned six Golden Globe nominations across three titles throughout his career, with two of his leading ladies taking home trophies. — Clayton Davis, Variety, 5 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leading lady

• arcady
• landlady
• cady
• shady
• zaidi

Kids Definition

leading lady

noun

: an actress who plays the leading female role in a play or movie