A performer who learns a role and is ready to perform if the main actor cannot, or to study something below the surface.
A compound word from 'under' (beneath) and 'study' (to examine closely), originally used in theater. It was eventually extended metaphorically to mean learning something thoroughly by observing from a subordinate position.
Many famous actors broke into stardom by being understudies—Viola Davis started this way, and being an understudy often meant more actual stage time and learning than going to acting school.
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