central casting: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not formally. It's primarily a compound noun. Figuratively, it's used in phrases like 'a central casting villain,' where it functions attributively but remains part of a noun phrase.

No, but it often is. It can be used humorously or neutrally to mean 'the perfect example of,' though it frequently implies a lack of originality or depth.

It originated in the American film industry. 'Central Casting' was the name of an actual corporation founded in 1925 that provided background actors (extras) to Hollywood studios, leading to the figurative use.

The figurative use is understood, especially in media contexts, but it is less ingrained than in American English. The literal industry term might be less familiar.

The agency or office responsible for selecting and assigning actors to roles for films, television shows, or theater productions. By extension, a stereotypical or archetypal person perfectly suited for a particular role or situation.

Central casting is usually informal, often figurative in register.

Central casting: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɛntrəl ˈkɑːstɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɛntrəl ˈkæstɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.