star / stär/ • n. 1. a fixed luminous point in the night sky that is a large, remote incandescent body like the sun.2. a conventional or stylized representation of a star, typically one having five or more points: the walls were painted with silver moons and stars. ∎  a symbol of this shape used to indicate a category of excellence: the hotel has three stars. ∎  an asterisk. ∎  a white patch on the forehead of a horse or other animal. ∎  (also star network) [usu. as adj.] a data or communication network in which all nodes are independently connected to one central unit: computers in a star layout.3. a famous or exceptionally talented performer in the world of entertainment or sports: a pop star| [as adj.] singers of star quality. ∎  an outstandingly good or successful person or thing in a group: a rising star in the party| [as adj.] Ellen was a star student. 4. Astrol. a planet, constellation, or configuration regarded as influencing someone's fortunes or personality: his golf destiny was written in the stars. ∎  (stars) a horoscope published in a newspaper or magazine: what do my stars say?• v. (starred, star·ring) [tr.] 1. (of a movie, play, or other show) have (someone) as a principal performer: a film starring Liza Minnelli. ∎  [intr.] (of a performer) have a principal role in a movie, play, or other show: McQueen had starred in such epics as The Magnificent Seven | [as adj.] (starring) his first starring role. ∎  [intr.] (of a person) perform brilliantly or prominently in a particular endeavor or event: Vitt starred at third base for the Detroit Tigers.2. decorate or cover with star-shaped marks or objects: thick grass starred with flowers. ∎  mark (something) for special notice or recommendation with an asterisk or other star-shaped symbol: the activities listed below are starred according to their fitness ratings| [as adj. , in comb.] (-starred) Michelin-starred restaurants. PHRASES: my stars! inf., dated an expression of astonishment.reach for the stars have high or ambitious aims.see stars see flashes of light, esp. as a result of being hit on the head.someone's star is risingsee rise.stars in one's eyes used to describe someone who is idealistically hopeful or enthusiastic about their future: a singer selected from hundreds of applicants with stars in their eyes.DERIVATIVES: star·less adj.star·like / -ˌlīk/ adj.ORIGIN: Old English steorra, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch ster, German Stern, from an Indo-European root shared by Latin stella and Greek astēr.