English · Arts & Literature

curtain call

/ˈkɜː.tən kɔːl/

[/ˈkɜː.tən kɔːl/]

final bow on stage

Advancednoun

Definition

The moment at the end of a performance when the actors return to the stage to receive applause.

Example

During the curtain call, the smiling cast bowed three times as the audience cheered enthusiastically.

During the curtain call, the smiling cast bowed three times as the audience cheered enthusiastically.

Etymology

Combining 'curtain' (from Latin 'cortina') and 'call', referring to calling actors back before the curtain.

How & Where It’s Used

A tradition at the end of plays, operas, and concerts.

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theatre

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