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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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of theatrics

1800–10; theatr(ic) ( def. ) + -ics

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Klein: Theatrics, like speed, route running and the abilities to create separation and gain yards after catches, are part of a modern-era NFL receiver’s toolbox.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 11, 2022

Theatrics won’t work with the judge, Elson said.

From Washington Post • Jul. 12, 2021

He’s enjoying Wyoming artists’ posts on Facebook, including daily readings by poets David Romvedt and Matt Daly as well as dramatic monologues by Anne Mason of Laramie-based Relative Theatrics.

From Washington Times • Apr. 19, 2020

Theatrics do matter, he wrote, so it’s not unreasonable for reporters to pay some attention to presentation.

From Salon • Nov. 8, 2019

Theatrics and Acrobatics Commingle Pilobolus, long a popular institution, is now 42.

From New York Times • Jul. 10, 2013