soap opera

[ op-er-uh, op-ruh ]

noun

1. a radio or television series depicting the interconnected lives of many characters often in a sentimental, melodramatic way.

soap opera

noun

1. a serialized drama, usually dealing with domestic themes and characterized by sentimentality, broadcast on radio or television

Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; so called because soap manufacturers were among the original sponsors of such programs

Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

C20: so called because manufacturers of soap were typical sponsors

Example Sentences

I wanted this vampire soap opera to be over, but we are stuck somewhere between the living and the dead.

From Salon

In other words, what might have seemed like a mutually convenient layby into which Ms Gray could be shunted, ended up perpetuating a rather public soap opera.

From BBC

His breakout role in a popular soap opera titled “Love and Truth” in 1984 led to a heady career as a national heartthrob.

From Los Angeles Times

The Dallas Cowboys have gone 12-5 the past three years before calamitous play-off endings just added to the enduring soap opera of 'America's Team' and their pursuit of the good old days.

From BBC

Born into a show business family, she was still a teenager when she was cast in the television soap opera “Peyton Place.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• melodrama
• serial
• soap