dramaturgy

noun

dra·​ma·​tur·​gy ˈdra-mə-ˌtər-jē How to pronounce dramaturgy (audio)
ˈdrä-
: the art or technique of dramatic composition and theatrical representation
dramaturgic adjective
or dramaturgical
dramaturgically adverb

Word History

Etymology

German Dramaturgie, from Greek dramatourgia dramatic composition, from dramat-, drama + -ourgia -urgy

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dramaturgy was in 1801

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Cite this Entry

“Dramaturgy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dramaturgy. Accessed 29 Aug. 2025.

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