adjective
dramatic
druh-MAT-ik/drəˈmætɪk/
Characteristic of theatrical performance.
The actors use dramatic gestures during their stage performance.
Etymology
Greek drama meant both an action and a play. Dramatic first described acted drama, then extended to effects whose force, animation, or striking display seemed fit for the stage.
In context
But some songs modulate to another key for dramatic effect. Like Beyonce’s “Love on Top.” Adam: Part of the reason why it's really exciting is because you're going to a place that's really distant on the circle of fifths.
More examples
- The actor takes a dramatic pause before revealing the secret.
- He gives a dramatic sigh when I mention washing dishes.
- The school offers classes in music and dramatic arts.
Forms
dramatic · more dramatic · most dramatic
drama noun — A play written for actors to perform.
dramatically adverb — In a striking or theatrical manner.
Similar words
- theatrical
- More directly suggests stage performance or deliberately showy behavior.
- exaggerated
- Stresses expression beyond what the situation reasonably calls for.