debut
day-BYOO
/deɪˈbjuː/
A person's first public appearance or performance; to make a first public appearance.
Carries a sense of significance and anticipation, marking the official entry of an artist or work into the public eye.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the French verb 'débuter', which originally meant to make the first stroke in a game of billiards or bowls, aiming for the 'but' (the target or goal). It evolved to mean taking the first step in any public arena.
Word relationships
- launch: 'Launch' is typically used for products, campaigns, or careers, whereas 'debut' is specifically for artistic or public appearances.
- premiere: A 'premiere' is the first public screening or performance of a work, while a 'debut' is the first public appearance of a person.
- swan song: A 'swan song' is a person's final performance or activity before retirement or death.
Commonly confused with
- initiation: 'Initiation' is the process of admitting someone into a private group or club, not a public performance.
Word family
- debutante (noun): A young woman making her formal entrance into society.
Collocations
- make a debut
- debut album
- directorial debut
Example sentences
- "She made her debut in a society that was both glittering and cruel." A description of a young artist's entry into the professional world.
- "The director chose to debut his highly anticipated indie film at the Sundance Film Festival." A director launching a new film.
Memory hook
Think of 'day-one'. Your 'debut' is your 'day-one' in the public spotlight. Your very first public appearance.
When not to use
Do not use for routine first attempts that lack public or professional significance.
Fun facts
- The spelling 'debut' retains its French silent 't' at the end, reflecting its elegant origins in the salons of Paris.
Related words
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