variants also theatric
Definition of theatricalnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word theatrical distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of theatrical are dramatic, histrionic, and melodramatic. While all these words mean "having a character or an effect like that of acted plays," theatrical implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression.

a theatrical oration

When would dramatic be a good substitute for theatrical?

While in some cases nearly identical to theatrical, dramatic applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply.

a dramatic meeting of world leaders

When might histrionic be a better fit than theatrical?

The synonyms histrionic and theatrical are sometimes interchangeable, but histrionic applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess.

a histrionic show of grief

When is it sensible to use melodramatic instead of theatrical?

In some situations, the words melodramatic and theatrical are roughly equivalent. However, melodramatic suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism.

made a melodramatic plea

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of theatrical Renowned for its unforgettable language and raw psychological power, Hamlet remains the ultimate theatrical event. Cincinnati Enquirer, 7 Mar. 2026 Childs’ exalted use of dance and Kosky’s dazzling theatrical imagination may have moved us into a sleeker, more sophisticated and paradisal Glassian realm, but the sheer passion McDermott and Stasevska bring continues its own attraction. Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026 Successful theatrical films would go onto earn respectable pay TV and home entertainment dollars, meanwhile. Dick Lippin, HollywoodReporter, 6 Mar. 2026 Buying or renewing Tier 2 or Tier 3 sports — including packages of MLB and NHL regular season games —is probably not the best use of capital for a company that’s looking for $6 billion in synergies and has promised to make 30 theatrical films. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for theatrical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theatrical
Adjective
  • She’s also known for her directness, which has led to dramatic clashes with her fellow commissioners.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 4 Mar. 2026
  • The Trigger Warning star took to Instagram on Wednesday, March 4 with full-on disco curls and a zebra-print halter dress in what was a rather dramatic departure from her signature loose waves and laid-back, California-cool style.
    Emma Banks, InStyle, 4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • But the Labèque sisters will be at Walt Disney Concert Hall at the end of the month with a two-piano program based on Glass’ operatic Cocteau trilogy.
    Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
  • The music by George and Ira Gershwin and DuBose and Dorothy Heyward blends jazz, blues and spiritual music with operatic forms.
    Dan Kelly, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Adolescence — roughly ages 10 to 19, according to the World Health Organization — is the critical window for developing confidence, a stable sense of identity and emotional regulation.
    Asuka Koda, CNN Money, 7 Mar. 2026
  • Google’s latest lawsuit pushes the company to do more, such as warning users about the risks of having long emotional conversations with its chatbot.
    The Los Angeles Times, Boston Herald, 7 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Theatrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theatrical. Accessed 11 Mar. 2026.

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