Definition

Proper noun: * Laszlo Lowestein: The birth name of the actor better known by his stage name, Peter Lorre. He was a United States actor of Hungarian origin, primarily recognized for his portrayals of ominous, threatening, or psychologically complex characters in film.

Usage Notes

• This term refers specifically to the real, legal name of the actor. In most contexts, especially when discussing his film career and public persona, he is referred to by his stage name, Peter Lorre.
• It is used in biographical, historical, or academic writing to distinguish his private identity from his professional one.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The actor known as Peter Lorre was born Laszlo Lowestein in Hungary.
  • Biographers often note that Laszlo Lowestein adopted his stage name early in his German film career.

Advanced Usage

• The name "Laszlo Lowestein" is typically used to establish factual, historical record, contrasting with "Peter Lorre," which represents the constructed cinematic icon.
• It may appear in formal documents, birth records, or in discussions about the immigration and name changes of European artists in the 20th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Peter Lorre (proper noun): The professional stage name of Laszlo Lowestein. This is the name used in film credits and by which he is universally recognized.
  • Peter Lorre's performance in "M" is considered a masterpiece of early sound film.

Synonyms

• Peter Lorre (stage name synonym, not a meaning synonym)

Notes on Different Meanings

• This term has only one specific referent: the individual actor. It does not have other general meanings or usages in the language.

Noun

1. United States actor (born in Hungary) noted for playing sinister roles (1904-1964)