understudy

About 0.15 uses per million words.

Meaning

1. verb To study or know a role to such an extent as to be able to replace the normal performer when required.
2. verb To act as an understudy (to someone).
3. verb To act in a similar manner to some known person.
4. noun A performer who understudies; a standby for a study.

Similar words

alternate standby stuntman stunt replacement double decoy liner lining rehearsals

Often followed by

to for of in and the was who is

Word family

understudied understudies understudying