Main Entry:

dra·mat·ic

Pronunciation:

\drə-ˈma-tik\

Function:

adjective

Date:

1589

1: of or relating to the drama <a dramatic actor>2 a: suitable to or characteristic of the drama <a dramatic attempt to escape> b: striking in appearance or effect <a dramatic pause>3of an opera singer : having a powerful voice and a declamatory style — compare lyric

— dra·mat·i·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

synonyms dramatic, theatrical, histrionic, melodramatic mean having a character or an effect like that of acted plays. dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply <a dramatic meeting of world leaders>. theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression <a theatrical oration>. histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess <a histrionic show of grief>. melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism <made a melodramatic plea>.