Decisions by dictionary editors, wacky wordplay, and Walt Whitman’s soaring verse. How do lexicographers decide which historical figures deserve a mention or perhaps even an illustration in the dictionary? The answer changes with the times. •...
Why do we differentiate linguistically between an actor and an actress, but don’t make a similar distinction between a male doctor and a female one? The profession of being an actor was initially limited to men, so the word actress came later...
item girl n. in Indian cinema, a woman who appears in an item song; (hence) a female actress, singer, or dancer, esp. one who is poised to become a star. Editorial Note: An item song or item number is a musical performance that has little do with...
MTA n. a model who takes up acting; a model-turned-actress/actor. (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)
AMW n. a (pretty) woman whose career derives in some way from her appearance. Etymological Note: Initialism for actress model whatever (source: Double-Tongued Dictionary)