What does thespian mean in theater?

A thespian is an actor or actress. The term typically refers to someone who is professional actor, as opposed to an amateur or community thespian. It can also be used to refer to someone who is a talented or accomplished actor, regardless of their professional status.

The term "thespian" comes from the ancient Greek word "thespis," which was the name of the first actor known by name. The original thespians were members of the chorus in ancient Greek theatre and were named after Dionysus.