Definition

Proper noun 1. A historical figure: Macbeth refers to the King of Scotland who reigned from 1040 until his death in 1057. His life and reign are part of Scottish historical record. 2. A literary character: Macbeth is the title character and tragic hero of William Shakespeare's play The Tragedy of Macbeth. This character, while based loosely on the historical king, is a dramatic creation known for his ambition, moral conflict, and downfall.

Usage Examples

• Referring to the historical figure:
  • The historical Macbeth was killed in battle at Lumphanan.
  • Historians study the reign of Macbeth to understand 11th-century Scotland.
• Referring to the Shakespearean character:
  • In the play, Macbeth is prophesied to become king.
  • The actor's portrayal of Macbeth was both powerful and terrifying.

Advanced Usage

• "A Macbeth-like ambition": Used adjectivally to describe ruthless, all-consuming ambition that leads to ruin, drawing directly from the character's traits.
  • The CEO's Macbeth-like ambition ultimately destroyed the company.
• "The Macbeth curse": Refers to the theatrical superstition that it is bad luck to say the name "Macbeth" inside a theatre unless during rehearsal or performance. It is often called "the Scottish play" instead.
  • The actor whispered, "Don't say Macbeth in the green room!"

Variants and Related Words

• Macbethian (adj): Resembling or characteristic of Shakespeare's Macbeth, especially in terms of tragic ambition or moral turmoil.
  • The film had a Macbethian theme of power corrupting a noble figure.

Synonyms

• The Scottish King (specifically for the historical figure).
• The Thane of Cawdor (a title held by the character before becoming king).
• The Scottish play (a euphemism for the play itself, used superstitiously in theatre).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To be a Macbeth": To be a person whose ambition leads to their own destruction and the harm of others.
  • In his ruthless climb to power, he became a Macbeth of the corporate world.
• "Out, damned spot!": While spoken by Lady Macbeth, this famous quote is inextricably linked to the story and themes of , representing guilt that cannot be cleansed.

Noun

1. king of Scotland (died in 1057)