Theatrical

Definition

Theatrical pertains to the theater or the performance of plays. Additionally, it can describe something overly dramatic or exaggerated in style.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θiˈætrɪkəl/
• Respelling: thee-AT-ri-kuhl (with "thee" as in "thee," "AT" as in "cat," "ri" as in "ribbon," and "kuhl" as in "cool")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /θɪˈætrɪkəl/
• Respelling: thee-AT-ri-kuhl (similar to American English, with "thee" slightly shorter, "AT" as in "cat," "ri" as in "ribbon," and "kuhl" like in "cool")

In both dialects, "theatrical" is pronounced with the primary stress on the "AT" syllable. The word begins with "thee," followed by "AT-ri-kuhl," highlighting the emphasis on theatrical performance. The pronunciation of "theatrical" shares similarities between American and British English, with minor differences in the vowel sound of the first syllable.

Etymology

The term "theatrical" is derived from the Late Latin "theatricalis," from Latin "theatricus," from Greek "theatrikos," from "theatron" meaning "theater". "Theatron" itself is derived from the verb "theasthai", meaning "to behold".

Derivatives

• Theatrically
• Theatricality
• Theatricalize
• Theatricalness
• Theatrics

Synonyms

• Dramatic
• Histrionic
• Showy

Antonyms

• Understated
• Muted
• Natural

Usage

• "Theatrical" can refer to the arts related to theater performances, like plays, operas, or ballets. Additionally, it can describe someone or something that exhibits an exaggerated, dramatic style or behavior.

Related Terms

• Drama
• Play
• Stage
• Performance
• Spectacle

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Relating to Theater: Concerned with acting, the presentation of plays, or the theater itself.
• Example: The film had a brief theatrical run before appearing on streaming platforms.

• Overly Dramatic in Style or Behavior: Marked by exaggerated self-display and unnatural behavior; affectedly grand.
• Example: Her theatrical gesture caught everyone's attention.

• Designed for Stage Representations: Suitable for or characteristic of the stage or theater.
• Example: The set was designed in a highly theatrical manner, capturing the essence of the play.