back-cloth star: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘back-cloth star’ mean?
The idiom "back-cloth star" refers to someone who appears to be successful or important, but only because they are surrounded by the right people or circumstances. They lack true talent or ability.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "star vehicle" refers to a movie or a show that is created specifically to showcase and highlight the talents and popularity of a particular actor or actress, often at the expense of other elements like the plot or script. It is a term commonly used in the entertainment industry.
The idiom "legend in one's own lunchtime" refers to a person who is only considered important or famous within a specific limited context or group, but lacks recognition or respect in a broader or more significant setting.
An idiom meaning an individual or thing that is the most impressive or influential among others in a given field or situation.
The idiom "just another pretty face" is used to describe someone who is attractive but lacks intelligence, skills, or substance. It implies that the person's appearance is their main or only attribute, often used in a dismissive or derogatory manner.
The idiom "in one's back pocket" means to have complete control or influence over someone or something.
The idiom "hitch one's wagon to a star" means to ambitiously attach oneself to someone or something of great success or influence in the hope of achieving similar success or recognition.
The idiom "high cotton" refers to a situation of great success, prosperity or abundance. It is often used to describe someone who is doing very well in terms of wealth, status or achievements.
The idiom "have someone's back" means to be supportive or protective of someone. It implies being there for someone in times of need or difficulty.
The idiom "have eyes in the back of one's head" means to be exceptionally observant or aware of one's surroundings. It implies a heightened ability to notice things that others might miss.
The idiom "good books" refers to being in a position of favor or under the protection of someone influential or powerful. It implies that the person is in a positive and secure state, likely due to their relationship with someone important.
Unmasking Enigmatic Backdrop Figures.
Back-cloth star is an idiom commonly used in the performing arts industry. It refers to a minor or supporting role in a theatrical production. The term "back-cloth" refers to the painted backdrop used as a stage setting, and "star" refers to a prominent or leading role. This idiom describes an actor or actress who is not the main focus but still has a role to play.
The origins of the idiom "back-cloth star" are not well-documented, but it likely emerged in the theater industry. Backdrops have been commonly used in stage productions for centuries. It is interesting that the word "star" is used in this idiom, suggesting that even minor roles have significance and contribute to a production's success.
The idiom "star vehicle" is related to "back-cloth star" in that it refers to a project or production that is specifically designed to showcase and promote a particular actor's talents. This is similar to a "back-cloth star" role, as both involve giving attention and recognition to a specific individual in a production.
Hitching one's wagon to a star is another related idiom. This phrase means to attach oneself to someone who is successful or influential in the hopes of achieving similar success. In the context of "back-cloth star," an actor or actress may hope to hitch their wagon to a star by taking on a minor role in the same production as a well-known and respected actor.
The idiom "emperor's new clothes" is also related to "back-cloth star." It refers to a situation where someone is praised and celebrated despite having no real talent or substance. In the performing arts industry, a "back-cloth star" may receive attention and recognition simply because they are in a production with well-known actors, even if their own performance is lacking.
Similarly, to adorn oneself with borrowed plumes means to take credit or receive praise for the accomplishments or qualities of others. In the context of "back-cloth star," an actor or actress may benefit from the reputation and success of the leading actors in a production, leading to praise and recognition that they may not necessarily deserve.
The idiom "flannelled fool" is another related expression. It refers to someone who is regarded as foolish or incompetent despite their privileged or esteemed position. In the performing arts industry, a "flannelled fool" may be a well-known and respected actor who delivers a subpar performance in a "back-cloth star" role.
To summarize, the idiom "back-cloth star" is commonly used in the performing arts industry to describe a minor or supporting role in a production. Its origins are not well-documented, but it likely emerged in the theater industry. The idiom can also be applied to other areas where there is a distinction between major and minor roles. It conveys the idea that even though individuals in these roles may not receive a lot of attention or recognition, they still have an important role to play and contribute to the overall success of a production.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *back-cloth star* can be used in a sentence:
- She was just a *back-cloth star* in the play, with no speaking lines.
- Despite being a *back-cloth star*, he stole every scene with his expressive dancing.
- The actress started her career as a *back-cloth star*, but quickly rose to become the lead in many productions.
The idiom *back-cloth star* is used to refer to a person who appears on stage as part of the background scenery or set, often without any speaking lines or significant role in the performance. It suggests that the person may not have a prominent or main role, but can still make an impact through their presence or actions.
More "Theater" idioms
