The Essential Showbiz Dictionary™ is your master list of entertainment industry terms.

Welcome to The Essential Showbiz Dictionary™. This comprehensive list of Entertainment Industry terms is the only resource you need for understanding the words and phrases that define the world of show business. Whether you’re a parent supporting your child actor, an aspiring performer, or someone interested in the industry, our dictionary will help you learn the complex language of entertainment. For instance, you might wonder what the difference is between an “audition” and a “callback“. An audition is the initial tryout where actors perform to be considered for a role. A callback is a second round, where selected actors are invited back for further evaluation, indicating they’re being seriously considered for the part. You’ll find these terms in our Becoming an Actor section. Explore by browsing all categories or searching for specific industry terms you’ve heard.

As you read through our guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into everything from acting and production to marketing, contracts, and legal matters. Learning these terms will give you the knowledge to make informed decisions and interact with industry professionals. As the entertainment industry evolves, so does our dictionary—we’re constantly updating and adding new terms to keep you informed and ahead of the competition.

Also check out our Essential Showbiz Acronym List™, the perfect companion to the Essential Showbiz Dictionary!