diva

Everyday

1. A diva is a famous and very talented female singer, especially in opera. tree →
2. (informal, disapproving) A diva is someone who behaves as if they are very important and expects special treatment, making a fuss. tree →

In the lessons

In music lessons, an opera diva; in everyday talk and showbiz stories, «diva behaviour» means demanding and fussy. Phrases: «opera diva», «pop diva», «diva behaviour», «a bit of a diva».

Examples

• The opera diva sang a beautiful song. tree →
• She is a pop diva with millions of fans. tree →
• Stop being such a diva and help tidy up! tree →
• The cat is a diva; she only eats from a clean bowl. tree →
• The star refused to go on stage until she had pink roses — real diva behaviour. tree →
• He was a bit of a diva about his costume. tree →

Note

Plural «divas». The word comes from Italian for «goddess». The informal meaning is used for anyone, boys and men too, though it is more often said of women; it can be a little unkind.