A prima donna is a term used in opera or commedia dellarte to refer to the leading female singer in the company, who is given the prime roles. The term is Italian for "first lady" and is often used to describe a female singer who is the principal soprano of the company and performs leading roles. The corresponding term for the male lead is primo uomo. The term prima donna assoluta is occasionally applied to a prima donna of outstanding excellence.

In modern usage, the term prima donna can also refer to a vain or undisciplined person who finds it difficult to work well as part of a team or group. It can also be used to describe someone who acts like they are the star of the show, dominating the conversation and interrupting others. The term is often used to describe someone who is arrogant, demanding, and flamboyant.