- to learn (a role) in order to replace the regular actor or actress when necessary.
- to act as understudy to (an actor or actress): to understudy the lead.
- to act or work as an understudy.
- a performer who learns the role of another in order to serve as a replacement if necessary.
- to study (a role or part) so as to be able to replace the usual actor or actress if necessary
- to act as understudy to (an actor or actress)
- an actor or actress who studies a part so as to be able to replace the usual actor or actress if necessary
- anyone who is trained to take the place of another in case of need