drama

[drah-muh, dram-uh]

noun

1. a composition in prose or verse presenting in dialogue or pantomime a story involving conflict or contrast of character, especially one intended to be acted on the stage; a play.

2. the branch of literature having such compositions as its subject; dramatic art or representation.

3. the art dealing with the writing and production of plays.

4. any situation or series of events having vivid, emotional, conflicting, or striking interest or results.

   the drama of a murder trial.

5. the quality of being dramatic.

drama

/ ˈdrɑːmə /

noun

1. a work to be performed by actors on stage, radio, or television; play

2. the genre of literature represented by works intended for the stage

3. the art of the writing and production of plays

4. a situation or sequence of events that is highly emotional, tragic, or turbulent

Other Word Forms

• minidrama noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of drama¹

First recorded in 1505–15; from Late Latin, from Greek drâma “action (of a play),” from drá(ein), drâ(n) “to act, do” + -ma, noun suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of drama¹

C17: from Late Latin: a play, from Greek: something performed, from drān to do

Example Sentences

The prime minister's answer to the drama of the last couple of days?

From BBC

After dominating the domestic news agenda for much of the summer with pronouncements on illegal immigration, Reform's 2025 conference has undoubtedly been overshadowed by the Rayner reshuffle drama.

From BBC

The tour’s rapturous reviews — and a notable lack of drama between the Gallaghers — cemented this as the must-see rock event of the year.

From Los Angeles Times

The actor, who broke out in the 2022 best picture Oscar winner “CODA,” hadn’t yet read a script for the crime drama, but she enthusiastically replied yes to Ingelsby’s question.

From Los Angeles Times

The school's website said it offered a range of subjects to study in the sixth form, including English, maths, science, drama, French, history, product design, art and philosophy.

From BBC

Related Words

• comedy 
• farce 
• melodrama 
• play 
• production 
• scene 
• show 
• theater 
• tragedy