adj.
Pronunciation: dr ə - ' ma-tik
Function: adjective
Date: 1589
1 : of or relating to the drama <a dramatic actor>
2 a : suitable to or characteristic of the drama <a dramatic attempt to escape> b : striking in appearance or effect <a dramatic pause>
3 of an opera singer : having a powerful voice and a declamatory style ― compare LYRIC
– dra · mat · i · cal · ly \ -ti-k( ə -)l ē \ adverb
synonyms DRAMATIC , THEATRICAL , HISTRIONIC , MELODRAMATIC mean having a character or an effect like that of acted plays. DRAMATIC applies to situations in life and literature that stir the imagination and emotions deeply <a dramatic meeting of world leaders>. THEATRICAL implies a crude appeal through artificiality or exaggeration in gesture or vocal expression <a theatrical oration>. HISTRIONIC applies to tones, gestures, and motions and suggests a deliberate affectation or staginess <a histrionic show of grief>. MELODRAMATIC suggests an exaggerated emotionalism or an inappropriate theatricalism <made a melodramatic plea>.