Definition

To make something seem more dramatic or important than it really is, often by exaggerating emotions or events.

Example

She tends to overdramatize her stories to make them more interesting.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how she told that story?

Yeah, it was like she wanted to overdramatize everything!

I know, right? It made it hard to take her seriously.

Exactly! Sometimes less is more when it comes to storytelling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overdramatize → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "dramatize" (from Greek "drama" meaning action or play, combined with the suffix "-ize" meaning to make or to cause to be). The word means to make something seem more dramatic or intense than it really is, excessively portraying it as a drama.

Memory Tip

Think of 'over' meaning excessively and 'dramatize' meaning to make something seem like a drama. This helps you remember that 'overdramatize' means to make something seem excessively dramatic.

Visually Confused Words