Definitions of act:

  • noun:   something that people do or cause to happen
  • noun:   a legal document codifying the result of deliberations of a committee or society or legislative body
  • noun:   a short theatrical performance that is part of a longer program
    Example: "He did his act three times every evening"
  • noun:   a subdivision of a play or opera or ballet
  • noun:   a manifestation of insincerity
    Example: "He put on quite an act for her benefit"
  • verb:   perform an action, or work out or perform (an action)
    Example: "Think before you act"
  • verb:   be engaged in an activity, often for no particular purpose other than pleasure
  • verb:   be suitable for theatrical performance
    Example: "This scene acts well"
  • verb:   discharge one's duties
    Example: "She acts as the chair"
  • verb:   behave in a certain manner; show a certain behavior; conduct or comport oneself
    Example: "You should act like an adult"
  • verb:   play a role or part
    Example: "She wants to act Lady Macbeth, but she is too young for the role"
  • verb:   perform on a stage or theater
    Example: "She acts in this play"
  • verb:   pretend to have certain qualities or state of mind
    Example: "He acted the idiot"
  • verb:   have an effect or outcome; often the one desired or expected
    Example: "How does your idea work in practice?"
  • verb:   behave unnaturally or affectedly
    Example: "She's just acting"