Prima Donna: Operatic Origin and Modern Figurative Meanings

Prima donna (Italian, "first lady") originally denoted the leading female singer in an opera company—typically a soprano.

Figurative Senses

1. Positive: Acknowledged star performer in any field ("the prima donna of the violin").
2. Negative (common): Temperamental, self-important person who demands special treatment, adulation, and control ("She's such a prima donna—won't rehearse without her specific tea").

Cultural Note

The term reflects historical opera culture where lead sopranos wielded immense power. Male equivalent: primo uomo (rarely used); divo for male stars.