leading man

noun

: an actor who plays the leading male role

Examples of leading man in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Based on the depth of potential contributing talent in a draft without a leading man, the best of all worlds could be an ability to trade back in the first round while also acquiring another, future first-round pick. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 21 June 2024 But at the end of season 3, Benedict doesn't seem to be ready to be the leading man quite yet. Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 13 June 2024 Viggo Mortensen, stalwart leading man of weathered good looks and appealing reserve, certainly qualifies. Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2024 Before becoming one of Hollywood’s most beloved leading men, Chris Pratt lived in an apartment behind the TLC Chinese Theater. Jack Dunn, Variety, 20 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for leading man 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'leading man.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leading man was in 1827

Dictionary Entries Near leading man

Cite this Entry

“Leading man.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leading%20man. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

leading man

noun
: an actor who plays the leading male role in a play or movie

More from Merriam-Webster on leading man

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