hammy

adjective

ham·​my ˈha-mē How to pronounce hammy (audio)
hammier; hammiest
Synonyms of hammynext
: marked by exaggerated and usually self-conscious theatricality
hammily adverb
hamminess noun

Examples of hammy in a Sentence

a hammy singer whose overwrought renditions of love songs just beg listeners to cry
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But sometimes this hammy hilarity can feel like a substitute for thoughtful plotting and considerate character development. Niela Orr, Vulture, 13 Jan. 2026 The usually very composed DiCaprio is going viral for getting playful during one of the show's commercial breaks, as he was captured laughing, smiling, and doing a very hammy impression of a person who was off camera. Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Jan. 2026 The result is moving, but just a little hammy. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 14 Nov. 2025 Yes, the natural charisma is there, but gone are the hammy flourishes and over-the-top gags. Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hammy

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hammy was in 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hammy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hammy. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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