Divas

A Diva was originally a distinguished female opera singer, but now usually refers to a popular female performer of non-operatic works. The term derives from an Italian word meaning "goddess", which, in turn derives from th

A Diva was originally a distinguished female opera singer, but now usually refers to a popular female performer of non-operatic works. The term derives from an Italian word meaning "goddess", which, in turn derives from the feminine form of a Latin word divus, meaning "divine one".

Time Magazine observed in its October 21, 2002 issue: "By definition, a diva is a rampaging female ego redeemed only in part by a lovely voice." The word was originally used of great female opera singers, almost always sopranos (like Maria Callas), but can be used to describe many female celebrities, such as singers, or movie actresses.