## What does it mean?
A **main character** is the most important person in a story. They often face challenges and grow throughout the tale.
## Etymology (where it comes from)
- The word **main** comes from Old French *main*, meaning "hand" or "primary."
- The word **character** comes from Greek *charaktēr*, meaning "a mark" or "symbol."
## Historical origin
- The term **main character** likely developed in English literature during the 19th century.
- It describes the central figure in stories and plays.
## Earliest records
- Early uses can be found in literary texts and plays from the 1800s.
## Variants and usage by country
- **Protagonist** (used in many languages)
- **Hero** (common in English)
- **Lead** (informal usage in English)
- **Main protagonist** (used in storytelling)
## Related words
- **Antagonist** (opposing character)
- **Supporting character** (less central figure)
- **Narrator** (tells the story)
- **Persona** (character in a story)