dramatics

American  

[druh-mat-iks] / drəˈmæt ɪks /

noun

1. (used with a singular or plural verb) the art of producing or acting dramas.

2. (used with a plural verb) dramatic productions, especially by amateurs.

3. (used with a plural verb) dramatic, overly emotional, or insincere behavior.

   His friends are tired of all his phony dramatics.

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dramatics British  

/ drəˈmætɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular or plural)

   1. the art of acting or producing plays

   2. dramatic productions

2. (usually functioning as plural) histrionic behaviour

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Etymology

Origin of dramatics

First recorded in 1675–85; see origin at dramatic, -ics

Example Sentences

There will not be similar dramatics for this edition.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 31, 2026

That “rift” may have been mildly overcooked for TV dramatics.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 23, 2025

Two Lions touchdowns were erased by penalties in the last 30 seconds of a wild Steelers’ win, but the on-field dramatics were overshadowed by DK Metcalf taking a swing at a fan.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 22, 2025

"I love the French crowd. They're here for the dramatics, they're here for the entertainment," she said.

From BBC • Aug. 9, 2025

Alex thought about Bri, how few scenes she made compared to Julie’s endless whining or Aunt Lorraine’s dramatics.

From "The Dead and the Gone" by Susan Beth Pfeffer