Cast

Definition

Cast is a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to throw or project something forcefully, to assign a role in a play or film, or to shape material by pouring it into a mold. As a noun, it can refer to the actors in a play or film, a hardened mold, or the act of throwing something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kæst/
• Respelling: kast

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kɑːst/
• Respelling: kaahst

The pronunciation of "cast" varies between American and British English, with British English using a longer "a" sound.

Etymology

The word "cast" originates from Old Norse "kasta," meaning "to throw." It entered Middle English in the 13th century, evolving in meaning to encompass various actions related to throwing, shaping, or assigning roles.

Derivatives

• Casting (noun)
• Castaway (noun)
• Recast (verb)
• Overcast (adjective)
• Forecast (verb/noun)

Synonyms

• Throw
• Mold
• Assign

Antonyms

• Hold
• Retract
• Retrieve

Usage

The term "cast" is widely used in performing arts, manufacturing, and literature, as in "The director cast her in the lead role" or "The metal was cast into a mold."

Related Terms

• Mold: A form used to shape liquid materials as they harden.
• Project: To throw or cast something forward.
• Ensemble: A group of actors, musicians, or dancers.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The actors in a play, movie, or production: Refers to the assembled group of people performing in a show or film.
  • Example: "The cast of the movie attended the premiere."
• A hardened protective covering, often for broken bones: A solid shell typically made of plaster or fiberglass used in medical treatment.
  • Example: "She wore a cast on her arm after the accident."
• The act of throwing something forcefully: Refers to the motion or action of projecting an object.
  • Example: "He made a strong cast with the fishing rod."

Verb

• To throw or project something forcefully: Commonly used for actions involving throwing or launching.
  • Example: "She cast the stone into the lake."
• To assign a role in a performance: Used to describe selecting someone to perform a role in a play, movie, or show.
  • Example: "The director cast her as the lead character."
• To shape a material by pouring it into a mold: Typically refers to forming metals, plaster, or other materials.
  • Example: "They cast the metal into a complex shape."