dramatic

[druh-mat-ik]

adjective

1. of or relating to the drama.

   Synonyms: theatrical

2. employing the form or manner of the drama.

3. characteristic of or appropriate to the drama, especially in involving conflict or contrast; vivid; moving.

   dramatic colors;

   a dramatic speech.

4. highly effective; striking.

   The silence following his impassioned speech was dramatic.

   Synonyms: sensational, startling

dramatic

/ drəˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to drama

2. like a drama in suddenness, emotional impact, etc

3. striking; effective

4. acting or performed in a flamboyant way

5. music (of a voice) powerful and marked by histrionic quality

Other Word Forms

• dramatically adverb
• nondramatic adjective
• overdramatic adjective
• predramatic adjective
• pseudodramatic adjective
• quasi-dramatic adjective
• semidramatic adjective
• undramatic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dramatic¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Late Latin drāmaticus, from Greek drāmatikós, equivalent to drāmat- (stem of drâma ) drama + -ikos -ic

Example Sentences

Critics have long championed Sandler’s dramatic work, promoting his candidacy for such films as “Punch-Drunk Love,” “Hustle” and “Uncut Gems.”

From Los Angeles Times

That sounds terribly dramatic, I know, but self-censorship is the heart of authoritarianism.

From Los Angeles Times

Some areas, however, saw dramatic rainfall over a short period of time, causing minor flooding in Twentynine Palms and dangerous mud and debris flows in the San Bernardino County mountains, trapping several motorists.

From Los Angeles Times

In his and Ferrera’s sturdy presence and in the serrated frenzy of Greengrass’ editing style, a shorter, tighter “The Lost Bus” would still hold plenty of dread and dramatic resilience.

From Los Angeles Times

Inside, there’s unnerving minimalist furniture, dramatic saunas and ice baths and an indoor football field with a throwing machine powerful enough to knock out a tooth.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• breathtaking 
• climactic 
• comic 
• emotional 
• impressive 
• melodramatic 
• powerful 
• sensational 
• startling 
• striking 
• sudden 
• tense 
• theatrical 
• thrilling 
• tragic 
• vivid