Hauptrolle

lead role

noun HOWPT-rol-luh Rare

Origin: from Haupt- (main) + Rolle (role)

Also means

starring role

Usage Note

Hauptrolle is the leading role, contrasted with the Nebenrolle (supporting role). The idiom die Hauptrolle spielen extends to any setting where someone or something is central.

Examples

"Sie ergatterte die Hauptrolle in der neuen Inszenierung."

Natural Translation

She landed the lead role in the new production.

Literal Translation

She snagged the lead-role in the new production.

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