histrionics

American  

[his-tree-on-iks] / ˌhɪs triˈɒn ɪks /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of histrionics

First recorded in 1860–65; histrionic, -ics

Example Sentences

As players frequently remind themselves and us, beneath the histrionics and interpersonal drama is simple gameplay.

From Salon

Also elusive is the source of Kayleen’s growing emotional distress, which Ms. Young conveys with an admirable absence of histrionics.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bondi probably wowed him with her snotty tone and histrionics, even as her wit left much to be desired.

From Salon

But Walcott feels Pickford has changed as he has grown older and reduced the histrionics that used to be his trademark.

From BBC

No, this season is not about histrionics, it’s about history.

From Los Angeles Times