drama

American  

[drah-muh, dram-uh] / ˈdrɑ mə, ˈdræm ə /

noun

1. a composition in prose or verse presenting in dialogue or pantomime a story involving conflict or contrast of character, especially one intended to be acted on the stage; a play.

2. the branch of literature having such compositions as its subject; dramatic art or representation.

3. the art dealing with the writing and production of plays.

4. any situation or series of events having vivid, emotional, conflicting, or striking interest or results.

   the drama of a murder trial.

5. the quality of being dramatic.

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drama British  

/ ˈdrɑːmə /

noun

1. a work to be performed by actors on stage, radio, or television; play

2. the genre of literature represented by works intended for the stage

3. the art of the writing and production of plays

4. a situation or sequence of events that is highly emotional, tragic, or turbulent

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Other Word Forms

• minidrama noun

Etymology

Origin of drama

First recorded in 1505–15; from Late Latin, from Greek drâma “action (of a play),” from drá(ein), drâ(n) “to act, do” + -ma, noun suffix

Example Sentences

Still, it isn’t clear how the drama in private credit will unfold.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

The triumph was a highly emotional conclusion to the ongoing drama of McIlroy’s pursuit of a career grand slam with victories at all four of golf’s major tournaments.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

To add to the drama, a warm Madrid afternoon suddenly turned to blackened skies and a deluge to set a spectacular stage for this meeting of European heavyweights.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

The stars of legendary American crime drama "Charlie's Angels" reunited Monday at Los Angeles' PaleyFest to celebrate 50 years since the show catapulted the trio to fame.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

“I hope that many of you will join the drama club I run.”

From "Amina's Song" by Hena Khan

Related Words

• comedy
• farce
• melodrama
• play
• production
• scene
• show
• theater
• tragedy