stage direction

noun

: a description (as of a character or setting) or direction (as to indicate stage business) provided in the text of a play

Examples of stage direction 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.
Peter Sagal, the host of radio show Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me, will host and read stage directions. Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 20 Oct. 2025 In this same mode, McCraney often has his characters speak their own stage directions. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025 Sometimes the characters speak their own stage directions and offer their own metaphors. Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 11 Sep. 2025 Filmmaker Dennis Dugan will direct, with stage directions being read by Tom Bergeron. Emily Longeretta, Variety, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stage direction

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stage direction was in 1790

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Cite this Entry

“Stage direction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stage%20direction. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

stage direction

noun
: a playwright's instruction to a director and actors
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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