theatrics

American  

[thee-a-triks] / θiˈæ trɪks /

noun

1. (used with a singular verb) the art of staging plays and other stage performances.

2. (used with a plural verb) exaggerated, artificial, or histrionic mannerisms, actions, or words.

---

theatrics British  

/ θɪˈætrɪks /

noun

1. the art of staging plays

2. exaggerated mannerisms or displays of emotions

---

Etymology

Origin of theatrics

1800–10; theatr(ic) ( def. ) + -ics

Example Sentences

Tom Daley's side-eye, Celie Imrie's noisy digestive system, Paloma Faith's early murder, Kate Garraway's theatrics, Joe Marler's "big dog" theory and Jonathan Ross's rousing exit speech all contributed to a memorable series.

From BBC

He has an entertainer’s flair for theatrics and a scholar’s devotion to mystery craft, pausing to squeeze in an insert shot of a flyer for the church’s book club that also doubles as a syllabus of his literary inspirations for anyone enticed to curl up afterward with a good novel.

From Los Angeles Times

Drum theatrics aside, Jesso’s singing is the album’s clear focal point; his pleading, slightly unsteady tone gives the music an emotional intimacy that makes you feel as though you’re sitting right next to him on the piano bench.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite those words, a relaxed Joshua and social media star Paul - usually known for his theatrics - exchanged pleasantries and kept it respectful with each other.

From BBC

“Speaking of survival, and moons—our soothsayer friend Madame Ionesco warned us to expect real theatrics from Beyond the Veil tomorrow. The first full moon of May means closing night for the curse upon the Ashtons, as we theater folk say. I wish there was something we could do to prepare.”

From Literature

Related Words

• dramatics
• histrionics
• stagecraft