Definition

Proper noun: * Sarah Siddons: An English actress renowned for her powerful and celebrated performances in tragic roles, particularly those in the plays of William Shakespeare. She is considered one of the greatest tragic actresses of the 18th century.

Usage

• Proper noun:
  • Sarah Siddons is often called the "Queen of Tragedy."
  • The biography details the life and career of Sarah Siddons.
  • Her portrayal of Lady Macbeth is what made Sarah Siddons famous.

Advanced Usage

• "A Sarah Siddons moment": This phrase is sometimes used in a modern, often humorous or ironic context to describe a moment of overly dramatic or tragic expression, alluding to her iconic tragic performances.
  • When she dropped her coffee, she had a real Sarah Siddons moment, clutching her chest as if in a Shakespearean tragedy.

Variants and Related Words

• Siddonian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Sarah Siddons or her grand, tragic style of acting.
  • The actress gave a Siddonian performance, full of profound grief and majesty.

Synonyms

• The Tragic Muse: A historical epithet often used for Sarah Siddons.
• A celebrated tragedienne: A formal term for a female tragic actress.

Related Idioms

• To be a Sarah Siddons: To be a woman of commanding presence and dramatic power (archaic or literary usage).
  • With her imposing stature and powerful voice, she was a Sarah Siddons of the modern stage.

Noun

1. English actress noted for her performances in Shakespearean roles (1755-1831)