Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A surname of a prominent American theatrical family: "Barrymore" refers specifically to the surname of a celebrated family of actors who were major figures in American theater and film in the late 19th and early-to-mid 20th centuries.

Usage

• The word "Barrymore" is used as a proper noun to identify members of this specific acting dynasty. It is often preceded by a first name (e.g., Ethel Barrymore, John Barrymore) to specify the individual. When used alone, it can refer to the family collectively or evoke their legacy in acting.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Barrymore family is often called "The Royal Family of Broadway."
  • Drew Barrymore is a modern actress who continues the family's legacy in film.
  • John Barrymore was renowned for his performances in Shakespearean roles.

Advanced Usage

• "A Barrymore": Can be used to denote a member of the family, often implying a certain standard of theatrical talent or pedigree.
  • With her commanding stage presence, she was considered a true Barrymore.

Variants and Related Words

• Barrymores (plural proper noun): Refers to multiple members of the family collectively.
  • The Barrymores dominated the American stage for decades.

Synonyms

• Theatrical dynasty: A family with a long, influential history in the theater.
• Acting family: A more general term for a family with multiple professional actors.

Notes on Different Meanings

The primary meaning of "Barrymore" is as a surname referring to this specific acting family. It does not have a common meaning as a standard noun or verb outside of this context. The definitions provided in the reference context list five specific individuals who bear this surname: 1. Maurice Barrymore (1847-1905), actor and patriarch. 2. Georgiana Emma Barrymore (1854-1893), actress and matriarch. 3. John Barrymore (1878-1954), actor. 4. Ethel Barrymore (1879-1959), actress. 5. Lionel Barrymore (1882-1942), actor.

Noun

1. United States actor; husband of Georgiana Emma Barrymore and father of Ethel Barrymore and John Barrymore and Lionel Barrymore (1847-1905)
2. United States actress; daughter of John Drew and wife of Maurice Barrymore; mother of Ethel Barrymore and John Barrymore and Lionel Barrymore (1854-1893)
3. United States actor; son of Maurice Barrymore and Georgiana Barrymore (1878-1954)
4. United States actress; daughter of Maurice Barrymore and Georgiana Barrymore (1879-1959)
5. United States actor; son of Maurice Barrymore and Georgiana Barrymore (1882-1942)