Originally used in opera or Commedia dell'arte companies, "prima donna" is Italian for "first lady." The term was used to designate the leading female singer in the opera company, the person to whom the prime roles would be given. The prima donna was normally, but not necessarily, a soprano. The corresponding term for the male lead (almost always a tenor) is "primo uomo."[1]
Famous opera prima donnas have often caused opera enthusiasts to divide into opposing "clubs" supporting one singer over another. The rivalry between the respective fans of Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi, for example, was one of the most famous of all opera, despite the friendship of the two singers.[2]
The designation prima donna assoluta (absolute first lady) is occasionally applied to a prima donna of outstanding excellence.[3] This is applied by popular consensus, to those whose achievements place them in a category above all others.
Sometimes, these "prime donne" (the Italian plural form) were grand with their off-stage personalities, and demands on fellow troupe members, musicians, set and wardrobe designers, producers and other staff but were deferentially tolerated because of their commensurate talent and "pulling power," that is, their draw at the box office. From this experience, the term "prima donna" has come into common usage in any field denoting someone who behaves in demanding, often temperamental fashion, revealing an inflated view of themselves, their talent, and their importance.[4] Due to this association, the contemporary meaning of the word has taken on this negative connotation.
Today the term has become a mainstream word outside opera to often describe a vain, undisciplined, egotistical, obnoxious or temperamental person who finds it difficult to work under direction or as part of a team, and although irritating, cannot be done without.[5][6]
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