lindsay
lindsay — noun
1. referring to Howard Lindsay (1889–1968), an American writer of plays and a stage
referring to Howard Lindsay (1889–1968), an American writer of plays and a stage actor, best known for co-writing the long-running Broadway comedy Life with Father with Russel Crouse.
Howard Lindsay co-wrote the Broadway comedy Life with Father with Russel Crouse.
proper noun referring to the dramatist
Critics admired Howard Lindsay for his skill as both a writer and an actor.
Life with Father made Howard Lindsay one of the most successful playwrights of the 1930s.
Howard Lindsay began his career as an actor on stage before turning to playwriting.
biographical context: career progression
Howard Lindsay wrote several Broadway plays and acted in many of them himself.
biographical: dual career as playwright and actor
Usage Note
Proper noun referring to a specific historical figure. When writing, use the full name 'Howard Lindsay' on first mention to distinguish this individual from the poet Vachel Lindsay.
Common Mistakes
2. referring to Nicholas Vachel Lindsay (1879–1931), an American poet who wrote rhy
referring to Nicholas Vachel Lindsay (1879–1931), an American poet who wrote rhythmic, musical verses and read his poems aloud to audiences across the United States.
Vachel Lindsay traveled across America reading his poems to audiences in small towns.
proper noun referring to the poet
The poet Vachel Lindsay was famous for verses that sounded like music when spoken.
In 1913 the magazine Poetry published several early works by Vachel Lindsay.
Vachel Lindsay often wrote about nature, American history, and everyday life.
biographical context: poetic themes
Teachers sometimes ask students to read Vachel Lindsay's poem 'The Congo' in class.
Usage Note
Proper noun referring to a specific historical figure. Vachel Lindsay is often associated with the early 20th-century poetry movement. His middle name 'Vachel' is part of his full name and should be included in formal references.
Common Mistakes
Etymology
Lindsay is a Scottish surname that originally came from the place name 'Lindsay' in Lincolnshire, England. The name probably means 'island of the linden trees' in Old English. Today it is used as both a surname and a given name in English-speaking countries.