dramatic

[ druh-mat-ik ]

adjective

1. of or relating to the drama.

   Synonyms: theatrical

2. employing the form or manner of the drama.
3. characteristic of or appropriate to the drama, especially in involving conflict or contrast; vivid; moving:

   dramatic colors;

   a dramatic speech.

4. highly effective; striking:

   The silence following his impassioned speech was dramatic.

   Synonyms: sensational, startling

dramatic

/ drəˈmætɪk /

adjective

1. of or relating to drama
2. like a drama in suddenness, emotional impact, etc
3. striking; effective
4. acting or performed in a flamboyant way
5. music (of a voice) powerful and marked by histrionic quality

Derived Forms

• draˈmatically, adverb

Other Words From

• dra·mat·i·cal·ly adverb
• non·dra·mat·ic adjective
• o·ver·dra·mat·ic adjective
• pre·dra·mat·ic adjective
• pseu·do·dra·mat·ic adjective
• qua·si-dra·mat·ic adjective
• sem·i·dra·mat·ic adjective
• un·dra·mat·ic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of dramatic¹

First recorded in 1580–90; from Late Latin drāmaticus, from Greek drāmatikós, equivalent to drāmat- (stem of drâma ) drama + -ikos -ic

Example Sentences

In close binary systems, this expansion is so dramatic that the dying star's outer layers can sometimes completely engulf its companion.

From Science Daily

Though dramatic in nomenclature, a bomb cyclone is a low pressure system found north of the tropics and south of the Arctic that deepens, or intensifies, very rapidly over a 24-hour period.

From Los Angeles Times

The “Euphoria” actor has been enrolled as a student at the University of Southern California where she is majoring in dramatic arts and minoring in African American studies.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, some homeless advocates say they’ve seen a dramatic shift in the last year, as elected officials nix or stall affordable housing projects that had already secured competitive state funding.

From Los Angeles Times

Post-match in Warsaw, he said the dramatic win was "just another step on the journey" as he eyes a third major tournament.

From BBC

Related Words

• breathtaking
• climactic
• comic
• emotional
• impressive
• melodramatic
• powerful
• sensational
• startling
• striking
• sudden
• tense
• theatrical
• thrilling
• tragic
• vivid