variants also theatric

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 The implication is that African creativity has always been global; just before the wing’s entrance, a Baule mask used in theatrical performances shares a vitrine with an ancient Roman sculpture of Pan. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 30 June 2025 The visual album premiered June 6 at the Tribeca Festival ahead of its one-night theatrical release in the U.S. and Canada on June 12. Denise Petski, Deadline, 30 June 2025 And when the sun made its theatrical entrance, the brand’s new sunglasses—gifted to attendees—ensured no one was left squinting. Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 30 June 2025 The revival marks a theatrical homecoming for Cedric, who previously appeared on Broadway in American Buffalo in 2008. Dave Quinn, People.com, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for theatrical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theatrical
Adjective
  • Males are slightly smaller than females and are known for dramatic courtship displays involving rapid wing beats and vocal trills.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • Most economists think May’s figures signal a dramatic downshift to come.
    Irina Ivanova, Fortune, 28 June 2025
Adjective
  • Italian operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti and Canadian rocker Bryan Adams played the venue too.
    Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 27 June 2025
  • With Burton's departure, however, what had been a filmed graphic novel returned to comic-book clashes; Joel Schumacher traded operatic style for sitcom puns well suited to casual video viewing.
    EW Staff, EW.com, 15 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Theatrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theatrical. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on theatrical

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