theatrical

Everyday

1. Theatrical means about the theatre, plays and acting: a theatrical company, theatrical costumes. tree →
2. Theatrical also means exaggerated and showy, as if acting for an audience: "He gave a theatrical sigh." tree →
3. (noun) Amateur theatricals are plays put on by ordinary people, not professional actors. tree →

In the lessons

In drama lessons it appears with stage, costumes, lighting and props. In stories and everyday life it describes someone who makes a big show of their feelings ("Don't be so theatrical!"). Phrases: "theatrical performance", "theatrical gesture", "theatrical makeup".

Examples

• The school put on a theatrical show at Christmas. tree →
• She bowed in a very theatrical way. tree →
• My brother gave a theatrical groan when Mum said "homework". tree →
• The theatrical costumes were stored in the hall. tree →
• Don't be so theatrical; it's only a small scratch. tree →
• The theatrical company toured the country with their play. tree →
• Theatrical makeup has to be bright so the audience can see it. tree →

Note

Adverb: theatrically. Spelling: theatre (UK) / theater (US), but "theatrical" is the same in both. The exaggerated sense is a bit critical.