dramatize

verb

dra·​ma·​tize ˈdra-mə-ˌtīz  ˈdrä- 

dramatized; dramatizing

transitive verb

1

: to adapt (something, such as a novel) for theatrical presentation

2

: to present or represent in a dramatic manner

intransitive verb

1

: to be suitable for dramatization

2

: to behave dramatically

dramatizable

ˈdra-mə-ˌtī-zə-bəl 

ˈdrä-

adjective

Examples of dramatize in a Sentence

The movie dramatizes her early life.

The book is dramatized in a new play.

I know I tend to dramatize things but it really was awful.

She cited a series of statistics to dramatize the seriousness of the problem.

This tragedy dramatizes the need for improvements in highway safety.

Recent Examples on the Web

The attack on Oseguera’s hideout dramatized Sheinbaum’s willingness to accept a more kinetic approach, despite the risks. —Kate Linthicum, Los Angeles Times, 3 Mar. 2026

Ridiculous and over-dramatized? —Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 3 Mar. 2026

Philip’s profound ambiguities are dramatized by Christian Van Horn in a bass-baritone of depth and just enough fiber. —Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 28 Feb. 2026

Florida’s raucous spring break reputation is one the state may never shake, thanks to a slew of Hollywood movies dramatizing the debauchery of a college trip to Fort Lauderdale. —Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

dramat-, stem in derivation of drama + -ize

First Known Use

1762, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for dramatize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

dramatize

verb

dram·​a·​tize

ˈdram-ə-ˌtīz, 

ˈdräm-

1

: to make into a drama

2

: to present or represent in a dramatic manner

dramatization

ˌdram-ət-ə-ˈzā-shən, 

ˌdräm-

noun