Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
actant
Noun
/ˈaktənt/
Definition
An actant is an entity that performs an action or has a role within a narrative or discourse.
Examples
In the story, the hero acts as the primary actant, driving the plot forward with his decisions.
In a sentence, the subject typically functions as an actant, while the object receives the action.
In the study of narratology, different actants can represent roles such as hero, villain, or helper.
Meaning
In linguistics and semiotics, an actant refers to any participant in a situation or text that contributes to the action or meaning.
Synonyms
- agent
- participant
- actor
- entity
