theatrics

[ thee-a-triks ]

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

/ θɪˈætrɪks /

noun

1. the art of staging plays
2. exaggerated mannerisms or displays of emotions

Word History and Origins

Origin of theatrics¹

1800–10; theatr(ic) ( def ) + -ics

Example Sentences

In addition to being a 3-Michelin Starred dining destination, The Inn at Little Washington is also the longest tenured Forbes 5 Star property in the world, where the finest culinary and hospitality experiences are delivered with a touch of theatrics.

From Salon

New South Wales police minister Yasmin Catley called the protest “irresponsible theatrics,” adding that the police had “done an outstanding job managing this dangerous and volatile situation.”

From Salon

The 68-year-old was known for his political theatrics - one of his signature moves involved hurling bananas as a sign of protest.

From BBC

Those who dismissed his agenda as theatrics, telling us not to worry, that he doesn’t mean them, or that institutional guardrails will keep them from happening—well, we shall see.

From Slate

Some people even threw in extra theatrics and party favors to liven up their pitch.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dramatics
• histrionics
• stagecraft