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Histrionic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Histrionic means overly dramatic or theatrical in behavior, often to attract attention. It can describe exaggerated emotions or actions that seem insincere or excessively showy.

histrionic

/ˌhɪstriˈɑnɪk/ /ˌhɪstriˈɒnɪk/

Definition:

Overly theatrical or dramatic in behavior, often exaggerated for effect.

Synonyms:

melodramatic, theatrical, exaggerated, overdramatic

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

genuine, sincere, restrained

Common Collocations:

histrionic behavior, histrionic gestures, histrionic outburst

Derivatives:

histrionically, histrionics

Usage Tips:

Use "histrionic" to describe exaggerated emotional displays, often insincere or attention-seeking.

Common Phrases:

histrionic personality disorder, histrionic display, histrionic flair

Etymology:

From Latin "histrio" (actor) and Greek "-ic," relating to theatrical performance or drama.

Examples:

  • 1. Her histrionic reaction to the news drew everyone's attention.
  • 2. He dismissed her complaints as mere histrionic exaggeration.
  • 3. The actor's histrionic performance overshadowed the rest of the cast.
  • 4. She rolled her eyes at his histrionic tantrum over a minor issue.

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