drop-curtain
Definition
- Noun:
- A "drop-curtain" is a type of theatrical curtain that is lowered and raised vertically, typically used to conceal the stage between scenes or acts, or to mark the end of a performance. It is often made of heavy fabric and may be painted or decorated.
Usage Examples
- (The curtain was lowered to close the scene.)
- (The curtain was used to conceal the stage during a break.)
Advanced Usage
"to bring down the drop-curtain": to conclude a performance or event.
- After the final song, the stage manager brought down the drop-curtain. (The performance was ended by lowering the curtain.)
"behind the drop-curtain": in a hidden or unseen part of the performance or process.
- The actors waited nervously behind the drop-curtain for their cue. (They were concealed from the audience.)
Variants and Related Words
Drop-scene (n): a synonym for drop-curtain, especially one that is painted with a scene.
- The drop-scene depicted a forest landscape. (The painted curtain showed a forest.)
Curtain (n): a piece of fabric used to cover or divide a space, often in theatre or home.
- The curtain rose to begin the show. (The fabric was lifted to start the performance.)
Synonyms
- Theatre curtain: a general term for any curtain used in a theatre.
- Act curtain: a curtain specifically used to separate acts in a play.
Phrasal Verbs
- Drop in: to visit casually or unexpectedly (not directly related to drop-curtain, but shows the verb "drop" used in a different context).
- She decided to drop in on her friend after work. (She visited without prior notice.)
Related Idioms
Curtain call: the appearance of performers at the end of a show to receive applause.
- The actors took a curtain call after the drop-curtain was raised again. (They returned to the stage for applause.)
Curtain raiser: a short performance before the main event.
- The comedian's act was a curtain raiser for the main play. (It preceded the principal performance.)