Synonyms for

Theatrical

Verb / θi:ˈætrɪkʌl / Another word for theatrical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to the theater or acting; exaggerated and overly dramatic in behavior or style

Synonyms & similar words

histrionics theatricalperformance untheatrical representation dramatic theater-like showy melodramatic histrionic exaggerated over-the-top theatric operatic stagey flashy grandiose ornate theatricalized theatrically theatricalism theatricality theatricalness theatrics theater

Synonyms by register

Formal

dramatic operatic melodramatic histrionic

Informal

over-the-top showy flamboyant exaggerated

Literary

stagey bombastic ranting

Antonyms

natural plain simple unaffected understated modest genuine

Common collocations

  • theatrical performance
  • theatrical production
  • theatrical effect
  • theatrical costume
  • theatrical makeup
  • theatrical agency
  • theatrical career
  • theatrical district

Word family

noun theatre
adjective theatrical
adverb theatrically

Usage note

Often used to describe behavior or actions that are exaggerated or intended to attract attention, sometimes with a negative connotation of being insincere or overly dramatic.

Example sentences

  1. The theatrical performance was so realistic that it felt like we were in a different world.
  2. She had a theatrical way of speaking that always captivated her audience.
  3. The play was a huge success because of its strong theatrical elements.
  4. The singer's theatrical costume stole the show.
  5. The director wanted to add more theatrical effects to the play to make it more exciting.

Quotes

  • Life is a moderately good play with a badly written third act. - Truman Capote
  • The world is a stage and most of us are desperately unrehearsed. - Sean O'Casey
  • All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players. - William Shakespeare

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