1. an actor who learns another actor’s role in order to be able to replace them if necessary
Usage: theater

1. to learn another actor’s role as a substitute
Usage: theater
2. to study or work under someone in order to learn their job

Examples

• The understudy had to go on when the lead actor fell ill.
• She worked as an understudy for the famous Broadway star.
• He understudied the role of Hamlet for six months.
• The young lawyer understudied the senior partner to learn courtroom techniques.
• Every understudy dreams of getting their big break on stage.
• She was asked to understudy three different roles in the production.