histrionics

[his-tree-on-iks]

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. dramatic representation; theatricals; acting.

2. behavior or speech for effect, as insincere or exaggerated expression of an emotion; dramatics; operatics.

   Cut out the histrionics—we know you're not really mad.

Word History and Origins

Origin of histrionics¹

First recorded in 1860–65; histrionic, -ics