Definition

In a way that is overly dramatic or theatrical, often to attract attention or express strong emotions.

Example

She spoke histrionically, making her performance seem exaggerated and theatrical.

Conversation

Did you see how he reacted to the news?

Yeah, he was being so histrionically dramatic about it!

I know, right? It's like he thought the world was ending.

Exactly! Sometimes I think he just loves the attention.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Histrionically → It is formed from "histrionic" (from Latin *histrionicus*, meaning pertaining to an actor) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "histrionically" means in a manner that is characteristic of actors or theatrical performance, often implying exaggerated or dramatic behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of 'histrionic' relating to actors and remember that 'histrionically' means behaving in a dramatic or exaggerated way, just like an actor on stage.

Visually Confused Words