Rockstar
/ˈrɑːk.stɑːr/noun
A famous and highly successful rock musician, or a person who is exceptionally skilled at something.
Did you know?The word is a modern compound from rock + star, with no ancient occult root, but it quickly became a cultural label for larger-than-life performers who were treated almost like mythic figures.
Etymological Timeline
18th Century
English
rock
“A genre of music built around amplified guitars, drums, and strong rhythm.”
Old English
English
stearra
“A celestial star.”
Old English
English
roccian
“To rock, sway, or move back and forth.”
20th Century
English
rock star
“A performer in rock music who is famous, glamorous, or idolized.”
Late 20th Century
English
rockstar
“A compacted form of the phrase, also used figuratively for an outstanding person.”