Figurant

extra; walk-on performer; supernumerary

noun fi-goo-RANT Rare

Origin: from French figurant

Usage Note

Figurant is a non-speaking performer who appears on stage to fill crowd scenes or background action. In opera they are also called Statist. Distinct from a Darsteller (named role) or Tänzer (dancer).

Examples

"Als Figurant nahm er an der Prozessionsszene teil."

Natural Translation

As a walk-on performer, he took part in the procession scene.

Literal Translation

As extra, he took part in the procession scene.

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