Latin is where we find the etymological origin of the term diva . Exactly it comes from “diva”, which can be translated as “goddess”.
The idea of diva is usually used to describe a showbiz figure who is very famous . These are big stars who stand out from the rest due to their popularity and/or talent.
For example: “The Hollywood diva spent ten million dollars to remodel her mansion,” “Only a diva like her can fill five stadiums singing old songs,” “The television diva surprised by attending the event without makeup.”
Divas in opera and cinema
The etymology of diva is linked to the divine . When the term began to be used, it was applied to the main opera singers , those who generated fascination and stood above the rest of the people, almost like divinities. As time went by, the concept began to be used to name any prominent figure in the world of art and entertainment.
For a figure to be considered a diva, it usually must have a special personality . The charisma of the divas, added to their artistic aptitudes, causes their admirers to idolize them. Audrey Hepburn , Marlene Dietrich , Greta Garbo and Elizabeth Taylor are some of the best-known divas in history .
It is considered that there are a series of common characteristics that all divas have. Among them are those who trust a lot in themselves, who have a quite strong and particular character, who stand out for not holding back in the face of the obstacles imposed on them to achieve their goals and who become a source of inspiration for others.
Negative meaning of the term
It is important to mention that diva is also used in a pejorative sense if a person intends to receive special treatment due to their fame. Expressions such as “diva whim” or “diva airs” appear if a celebrity makes absurd requests or establishes excessive demands to be hired or interviewed.
There are many actresses, models or singers who have diva whims, requests or behaviors that can be very absurd. Examples of this are the following:
-The American singer Mariah Carey , for example, has a team of staff dedicated solely to caring for and ensuring the well-being of her dogs.
-The Colombian singer Shakira usually requests that the hotels where she stays have everything from yoga mats to vanilla-scented candles and even a massage table. And to all this are added rehydrating drinks and seasonal fruit.
– Madonna is one of the most eccentric artists and most classified as a diva. Among his unique requests and behaviors as such are that he always demands that his dressing rooms be full of white roses and he always has to be offered very specific water. However, the most eccentric thing was to ask for a helicopter to take her to her house, which was about 6 kilometers from where she was.
Albums and songs titled "Diva"
“Diva” , finally, is the title of albums by Annie Lennox , Ivy Queen and other artists.
Songs by Beyoncé and Dana International are also titled this way.