theatrical

adjective the·at·ri·cal \ thē-ˈa-tri-kəl \

variants: or less commonly theatric play \thē-ˈa-trik\

|Updated on: 16 Jun 2018

Tip: Synonym Guide

Examples: theatrical in a Sentence

Definition of theatrical

1 : of or relating to the theater or the presentation of plays

a theatrical costume

2 : marked by pretense or artificiality of emotion

3 a : histrionic

a theatrical gesture

b : marked by extravagant display or exhibitionism

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theatricalism

play \thē-ˈa-tri-kə-ˌli-zəm\ noun

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theatricality

play \thē-ˌa-trə-ˈka-lə-tē\ noun

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theatrically

play \thē-ˈa-tri-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

See theatrical defined for English-language learners

See theatrical defined for kids

Examples of theatrical in a Sentence

a politician who has a highly theatrical manner of speaking
after stepping out of their hired limousine, the prom couple made a theatrical entrance in their evening clothes

Recent Examples of theatrical from the Web

And Richman also found success appearing in numerous films and theatrical productions.

— stephanie nolasco, Fox News, "'Three's Company' actor Peter Mark Richman reveals what it was like working with Suzanne Somers, Sophia Loren," 1 June 2018
On 10 consecutive Fridays, from June 29 to Aug. 31, admission will be free for theatrical productions, art museums, historic sites, and other attractions.

— alana levene, BostonGlobe.com, "If it’s a Friday, it just might be free," 28 May 2018
In 2013, the church put on an extravagant theatrical production inside its 21,000-seat auditorium in Salt Lake City to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its alliance with the Boy Scouts.

— CBS News, "Mormons cutting ties with Boy Scouts, ending long alliance," 9 May 2018
During her time there, Meghan performed in multiple theatrical productions.

— caroline picard, Good Housekeeping, "What Is Meghan Markle's Relationship With Her Dad, Thomas Markle?," 9 May 2018
In 2013, the church put on an extravagant theatrical production inside its 21,000-seat auditorium in Salt Lake City to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its alliance with the Boy Scouts.

— brady mccombs, The Christian Science Monitor, "Mormons end century-old relationship with Boy Scouts," 9 May 2018
Rockin’ Road to Dublin is the new sensation that combines the art of an Irish dance show, the power of a rock concert, all with the finish of a Broadway theatrical production.

— Indianapolis Star, "Win Rockin’ Road to Dublin Tickets," 22 Mar. 2018
When Venus cruises through this theatrical sign, expect all things romance to be amplified.

— aliza kelly faragher, Allure, "What June's Aries Horoscope Means for You," 29 May 2018
Tresnjak does this artfully by giving the play a few grandiose theatrical moments while also maintaining an air of nonchalance and naturalism.

— christopher arnott, courant.com, "Apartheid Drama "A Lesson From Aloes" At Hartford Stage Has Powerful, Relevant Message," 29 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'theatrical.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of theatrical

1558

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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theatrical Synonyms

Synonym Discussion of theatrical

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.