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

Viewers were left asking themselves if the over-the-top dramatics they witnessed were in fact a midweek “SNL” comedy sketch, with Amy Poehler playing Bondi.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 13, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 23, 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

But it’s when she turns inward that Madison’s performance starts to sing, revealing the great depth behind her character’s hardened exterior without the need for any showy dramatics.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2025

She says it with such great dramatics, but it’s lost on me.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy