What’s the deal with divas?

di�va

n. pl. di�vas or di�ve

1. An operatic prima donna.

2. A very successful singer of nonoperatic music

Etymology: Italian, literally, goddess, from Latin, feminine of divus divine, god

Inflected Form(s): plural: divas or di.ve

There has been such an influx of divas, lately, that it hardly seems possible that they won’t outstrip the normal population by as soon as the end of this decade. It used to be that the title of Diva had to be earned, through perhaps divine right, or at the very least, extreme and exemplary service to mankind.

In ancient times, Hera was a diva, Helen of Troy was a diva, Cleopatra was a diva. More recently, people like Amelia Earhart and Aretha Franklin come to mind.

Now, chicks like Christina Aguilera are being given the diva distinction. I mean, sure she’s a total hottie (though you know she’s no Britney guurrrll), and can sing like a mutha-fucka, but diva? I don’t know, it just doesn’t seem right.

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