Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Paul Robeson: An acclaimed American bass-baritone concert singer, actor, professional football player, and a prominent social activist. He is historically significant for his extraordinary artistic achievements and his unwavering, outspoken advocacy against racial injustice and for socialist ideals during the 20th century.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Paul Robeson's powerful rendition of "Ol' Man River" is iconic.
  • The university hosted a lecture on the life and legacy of Paul Robeson.
  • He was inspired by the activism of Paul Robeson.

Advanced Usage

• "A Paul Robeson figure": used to describe a multi-talented artist who is also a courageous political activist.
  • The journalist was described as a Paul Robeson figure for her artistic work and human rights campaigning.

Variants and Related Words

• Robeson (n): A common shorthand reference for Paul Robeson.
  • The documentary focused on Robeson's years in exile.

Synonyms

• Activist-artist: A person who combines artistic work with political or social activism.
• Bass-baritone: A classical singing voice type, referring to his vocal range.

Related Phrases

• "To carry the torch of Paul Robeson": To continue the fight for racial equality and social justice in the spirit of his activism.
  • The new generation of singers aims to carry the torch of Paul Robeson.

Related Idioms

• "A voice like Paul Robeson's": Used to describe an exceptionally deep, rich, and powerful singing voice.
  • The young singer surprised everyone with a voice like Paul Robeson's.

Noun

1. United States bass singer and an outspoken critic of racism and proponent of socialism (1898-1976)