diva

A diva is a female opera singer, but now the term also refers to a popular female performer of non-operatic works. The term was originally used to describe a woman of rare, outstanding talent. The term derives from an ancient Italian word meaning "goddess", which, in turn derives from the feminine form of a Latin word divus, meaning "divine one."

The term sometimes carries a comical or negative connotation, implying that a pop star who labels herself a "diva" is arrogant, difficult to work with, high-maintenance, or demanding. In slang jargon, a woman may be referred to as a "diva", suggesting that she thinks highly of herself, is demanding, or is especially dramatic. The term can also be used positively, however, to comment a woman's talent, performance style, or stage presence, likening it to that of a famous and successful diva.

TIME magazine observed in its October 21, 2002, issue: "By definition, a diva was originally used for great female opera singers, almost always sopranos." Often today "diva" is used to describe any extremely independent and talented woman; however, the term still applies to the classical arts.

There are many women who are or have been considered divas. They include: Maria Callas, Barbara Streisand, Joan Sutherland, Kathleen Battle, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, Cher, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Dame Kiri te Kanawa, Patti LaBelle, Madonna, Diana Ross, Amy Grant, Aretha Franklin, and Dame Elisabeth Schwarzkopf.

See Also

VH1 Divas