histrionics

[ his-tree-on-iks ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. dramatic representation; theatricals; acting.
2. behavior or speech for effect, as insincere or exaggerated expression of an emotion; dramatics; operatics:

   Cut out the histrionics—we know you're not really mad.

Word History and Origins

Origin of histrionics¹

First recorded in 1860–65; histrionic, -ics

Example Sentences

It’s sure to come without the histrionics of the last election—though violence is prevalent in the United States, and I discount nothing at this point.

From Salon

Without the distracting histrionics of the blustering Republican nominee, the Vance-Walz face-off could prove more substantive than the two presidential debates that took place this summer.

From Los Angeles Times

"It's histrionics and grandstanding," said John Bursch, of the Alliance Defending Freedom.

From BBC

The jurors focus on the evidence, not the man, and not the histrionics and theatrics of the courtroom.

From Salon

I dare say they likely all already knew that, and their histrionics about "life" were a pretext for the real goal: stripping women of basic rights.

From Salon