act
act Lexical Profile
act Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A thing done; an intentional deed or specific undertaking.
"Returning the lost wallet with all its cash inside was a genuine act of kindness."
A formal law, statute, or decree passed by a legislative body such as a parliament or congress.
"The legislature passed a landmark environmental act to protect coastal wetlands."
A major division of a theatrical play, opera, ballet, or film, or a short individual performance in a variety show.
"The audience applauded enthusiastically as the curtain fell at the end of the first act."
A posture or display of insincere behavior adopted to deceive or impress others.
"Despite his calm demeanor during the interview, his confidence was merely an act."
• verb
To take action or do something in order to achieve a result or deal with a situation.
"Emergency services had to act quickly to contain the flooding before nightfall."
To behave or conduct oneself in a specified manner.
"The committee members were expected to act professionally throughout the negotiations."
To perform a dramatic role in a play, film, or television production.
"She began to act in community theater productions while still in high school."
To fulfill the function or duties of a particular role, capacity, or mechanism.
"The senior deputy will act as director until a permanent replacement is appointed."
• Rhymes for act
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English from Old French acte and directly from Latin actus ('a doing, a driving, impulse') and actum ('a thing done, public record'), both derived from the verb agere ('to set in motion, drive, do, or perform').